An Garda Síochána’s ‘Operation Navigation’ will continue this weekend to ensure public health regulations are being followed in pubs across the country.
To date, 26 premises have been found by Gardaí to have potentially breached the health regulations or licensing laws even after providing the premises with the opportunity to rectify the situation.
Files are being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions in these cases.
Gardaí will also have a “high visibility presence” in key locations in cities and towns to ensure the public are adhering to the public health guidelines.
In a statement, Gardaí say 2,785 individually licensed premises were found to be open last weekend.
Deputy Commissioner, Policing and Security, John Twomey said: “Last weekend, Operation Navigation found that the vast majority of licensed premises were adhering to the public health regulations.
“Unfortunately, 26 didn’t appear to be. By doing so, they are putting themselves, their employees, their customers and the wider community at risk of getting COVID-19. We would hope that lessons have been learnt and we see an even high rate of compliance after this weekend.
“In addition, customers of licensed premises engaged in such practices also have to take personal responsibility. By using a premises that is not in compliance with the public health regulations and has not taken on-board the public health advice, those customers are also creating a risk to themselves, their family, their friends and the local community.”
Operation Navigation is in effect until the 20th July.
In addition, under liquor licensing laws, a licensed premises requires a declaration of suitability from a member of An Garda Síochána in order for its liquor license to be renewed.
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