New checkpoints have sprung up on motorways and dual carriageways across the country today as Gardaí attempt to clamp down on people breaking Level 5 rules during Easter week.
The checkpoints are being set up in response to the high levels of COVID-19 in the community in what is the final week of the current Level 5 lockdown.
The lockdown measures will remain in place until Easter Monday, but the government is likely to announce a further extension to the restrictions tomorrow evening.
Under the Level 5 rules, people are allowed only to leave their home if they have a reasonable excuse or necessary journey.
By Friday last, Gardaí had issued 12,336 €100 fines for non-essential travel, 721 €500 fines for journeys to airports/ports and 313 fines of €100 for non-essential travel by people not resident in the State.
They advised the public that every adult detected in a vehicle found to be in breach of the non-essential travel regulations can be subject to a fine.
Speaking today, Deputy Commissioner, Policing and Security, Anne Marie McMahon said that once again this Easter Period people are being asked to stay at home to protect themselves, their families, relatives and friends.
“The Public Health regulations remain in place, including restriction on travelling outside of your home,” said Anne Marie.
“Members of An Garda Síochána are working hard to support communities during this time, I want to thank those who continue to support the national effort and urge everybody to re-double their efforts to comply with public health guidelines and regulations over the coming days.”
