An Garda Síochána has issued approximately 20,280 Covid-19 fines worth over €2.9 million for breaches across the range of all COVID-19 regulations.
As of close of business yesterday (April 15, 2021) the following number of fines had been recorded:
- 14,650 €100 fines for non-essential travel
- 1,186 €500 fines for non-essential journeys to airports/ports – the total number of €100
- €500 fines for non-essential journeys to airports/ports is 1,561
- 718 €500 fines for organising a house party and 2,855 €150 fines for attending a house party
- 341 fines of €80 each for not wearing a face covering
- 407 fines of €100 for non-essential travel by persons not ordinarily resident in the State
Due to technical changes to the Garda system following the recent introduction of new regulations the figures released today do not take account of fines issued since Monday, April 12 2021.
In a statement issued this evening An Garda Síochána say that they are continuing to find groups gathering (house parties, social gatherings, exercise etc.) in breach of regulations.
“These are not just breaches of regulations, but are a risk to the individuals involved, their families and loved ones, and continue to put everybody’s health and the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic at risk” they said.
“An Garda Síochána will be continuing nationwide checkpoints and high visibility patrols at public amenities, parks and beauty spots across the country this weekend in support of public health regulations.
“An Garda Síochána is again advising the public of the need to plan their activities over the weekend to take account of the new limitations on non-essential travel i.e. travel within your county or 20km from your home.
“The public should also be aware that if a driver is found to be in breach of the non-essential travel regulations that not only can the driver be fined, but their adult passengers as well. This is also the case for adults in groups undertaking activities such as cycling or walking – every adult in such a group can be fined.
“When visiting amenities within the travel limit please park legally. Illegal parking can hinder access by emergency services and could put lives at risk. As we saw during previous weekends, people who illegally park are at risk of having their cars towed and impounded.
In enforcing these regulations, Gardaí have been using the 4Es approach – engaging, explaining, and encouraging with enforcement a last resort.
Speaking earlier today, Deputy Commissioner, Policing and Security, Anne Marie McMahon said, “Thanks to the hard work and sacrifice of the vast majority of people many of the key COVID-19 indicators are starting to improve. All of us in An Garda Síochána appreciate this.
“It is important now that we continue to do the right things. We need to maintain social distancing, limit our contacts, and regularly wash our hands.
“Please do not gather in large groups or attend or host house parties. Being at such gatherings puts you, your loved ones and everyone you have contact with after at risking of catching COVID-19.”
Further data on COVID-19 fines include age, gender, and divisional breakdown is available on www.Garda.ie.
