Following the decision of Government to move to Level 5 under the Framework for Living with COVID-19, An Garda Síochána has from 22 October 2020 conducted a range of activities to keep people safe by supporting public health measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
This has included a large number of static and rolling checkpoints, high visibility community engagement patrols, visits to retail premises, and ongoing support for the most vulnerable.
Since 22 October, An Garda Síochána has operated 132 checkpoints on major roads and approximately 1,000 other checkpoints on secondary and minor roads per day.
According to date from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), average traffic volumes for private cars is currently down approximately 50% from pre-COVID-19 levels.
There have been 13 incidents between 22 October and 31 October inclusive where individuals were suspected of breaching travel restriction regulations and files have been sent to the DPP in line with Garda policy
Crime trends: Some categories of crime (such as burglary) have fallen since the introduction of Level 5 restrictions while others remain at similar levels.
Face Coverings: Since the 22 October there has been one incident where the non-wearing of face masks has resulted in a file being sent to the DPP (bringing the total to eight since this became a regulation).
International Travel Regulations: The total number of incidents relating to the failure to provide contact tracing details on landing forms stands at five as of 31 October 2020.
Retail Premises: An Garda Síochána has been conducting checks of retail premises across the country to ensure compliance with public health regulations. The vast majority of retail premises were compliant or came into compliance when requested to do so. This is being verified by follow-up inspections.
However, up to 31 October 2020, there have been 11 incidents where premises so far have continued with suspected breaches of regulations. All in such instances in line with Garda policy, files will be sent to the DPP.
Speaking today Deputy Commissioner, Policing and Security, John Twomey said it is very welcome to see such continuing high levels of compliance with the Level 5 public health guidelines.
He added “We want to thank the public for this. We know it is not easy, but it is vital that we all work together to maintain this in the weeks ahead to further reduce the spread of COVID-19.
“Compliance among retail premises also remains very high. This is appreciated. However, there are still some retailers who are potentially in breach of the regulations. We will continue to focus our attention on those retailers.
“I would like to remind the public that Gardaí around the country are here to help at this difficult time, particularly those who are vulnerable or feel isolated. If you know of someone who, for instance, needs their shopping done, their pension collected or checked on please contact your local Garda station. We are here to help.”
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