New emergency powers to restrict people’s movement will expire after the weekend.
People continually flouting the social distancing laws could face a fine of 2,500 euro or a six month jail sentence.
The powers were enacted last night in light of concerns, particularly from residents in tourist hotspots, that large crowds could converge there over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.
Ireland has been subject of a sweeping lockdown order for nearly two weeks now, but Gardaí have only now been given emergency powers to enforce them.
The force is promising a high visibility campaign this weekend, as it looks to ensure that people are staying within 2km of their homes, and only travelling for essential reasons.
This has been warmly welcomed in Clare’s tourist hotspots, where concern had been raised that people wold disregard the guidelines and head to the coast for the upcoming long weekend.
While there have been mixed reports on how many people have travelled to the county’s coast, this woman in Lahinch told Clare FM of her concerns, and what she’s seen over recent days.
Gardaí are announcing details of what they’re calling Operation Fanacht this lunchtime.
Their powers to restrict movement will expire after the weekend, but those breaking the law could be fined up to €2,500 or face six-month jail terms.
Senior official at the Department of the Taoiseach Liz Canavan says people need to stick to the 2km restrictions.
Lahinch hotelier Michael Vaughan is among those pleading with people not to let things slip now and to continue to obey the guidelines, for all of our sakes.
Superintendent Brendan McDonagh has been speaking with Clare FM’s Fiona Cahill on the Main Lunchtime News and has outlined how the new powers will affect people in this county.
