Coronavirus: people must not “flaunt” travel restrictions just to visit holiday home

People must not “flaunt” travel restrictions imposed to combat the spread of coronavirus just to visit holiday homes this weekend a Galway TD has said.

Roscommon-Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice acknowledged the significant effort made by Irish people to adhere to the restrictions in place during the coronavirus pandemic.

He said that it has been “heart-warming” to see communities pulling together to fight the spread of the virus.

“The vast majority of people have put their shoulder to the wheel in these uncertain times are following the social distancing rules outlined by the experts”.

“It has been great to see people volunteering to support others in their communities who may have to cocoon for a period of time.”

But he added that we cannot let the efforts undertaken so far slip, adding that some people may be tempted to “flaunt” the rules with the bank holiday weekend ahead.

“It is important for people to adhere to the travel restrictions. People who own holiday homes or traditionally visit caravan parks etc must refrain from travelling this weekend.”

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced today that restrictions brought in to combat the spread of the virus will not be lifted on Easter Sunday, but will continue until May 5.

The government will review the situation after that three week extension, and restrictions may begin to be lifted in a rolling fashion after that period.

But, depending on the number of cases which continue, they could be reimposed just as quickly.

New powers given to the Gardaí to enforce these restrictions will also be extended by order of the Health Minister.

“We cannot afford to give this virus any more opportunities to spread,” Michael Fitzmaurice said.

“People working in the health service are valiantly placing themselves in the line of fire in order to save lives; the least the rest of us can do is stay put.”

“Once we have beaten the virus, there will be plenty more bank holiday weekends to enjoy with family and friends. But we must be willing to make the sacrifice now.”