More high-visibility checkpoints are on the way tomorrow as gardaí strengthen operations to ensure Covid-19 restriction compliance.
As Level 3 restrictions come into effect nationwide tonight, gardaí are planning a major policing operation with extra patrols on the roads across the country.
Motorists may encounter delays due to the132 large-scale checkpoints planned every day on main arterial routes around the country. Thousands of mobile checkpoints are scheduled for secondary routes in towns and villages each week.
Operation Fanacht Checkpoint in Bridgend Donegal, September 2020. Photo: @GardaTraffic
The focus of this activity is to continue encouraging people to adhere to national public health measures, Commissioner Drew Harris said: “An Garda Síochána is encouraging people not to travel out of their county unless it is for essential purposes.
“We want to advise people that will be conducting major checkpoints on main routes and travelling by road from tomorrow will be different from travelling today. People using the roads are likely to face delays.
“Since the start of the pandemic, An Garda Síochána has adopted a graduated policing approach based on its tradition of consent. We have seen compliance by the vast majority of the public with this approach. Independent surveys have also found significant public support for it. We will continue to police in this way.
“We have also had a strong focus on the protecting and supporting the vulnerable. That will continue as well. If you need our help, please contact your local Garda station.
“As an organisation rooted in the community, An Garda Síochána understands the difficulties these measures place on everybody. More than ever, we all need to work together and adhere to public health guidelines and regulations to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and save lives.”
Gardaí say their Covid-19 community response efforts will also continue to support the vulnerable and the elderly, while Operation Faoiseamh will continue to assist victims of domestic violence.
Deputy Commissioner John Twomey, Policing and Security said: “Your local Gardaí are here to help whether that is delivering medical prescriptions, collecting your pension or other supports you may need.
“Any person with these concerns for themselves or for a neighbour please contact your local Garda station.
“If you are a victim of domestic abuse or you know of a family member or friend who is a victim and may not be in a position to help themselves, I ask that you make contact with An Garda Síochána. If you require urgent assistance or support, please call 999 or 112. We are here to listen, to help and to protect.”
