Almost 100 COVID fines issued in Galway so far this month

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Just under 100 on the spot fines for breaches of COVID-19 regulations have been issued by Gardaí in Galway since the start of April.

As of April 8 there have been 1,065 COVID fines issued by Gardaí in Galway, up from 969 at the end of March.

Nationwide, Gardai have issued 1,415 fixed charge penalty notices over the first week of the month for offences including breaking the 5km travel limit without a valid reason, organising or attending a party, or not wearing a mask.

The vast bulk of those of those were for travelling without a reasonable excuse, with 936 people fined.

Another 66 people have been fined for organising a house party or event, and 283 people have received a fine for attending such an event.

Of the 19,150 on the spot fines which Gardaí have handed out under the current regulations, just 38% have been paid to date, while 28% are still within the period of 28 days people have to pay, and 3% are processing in the system.

But 31% of all FCPNs issued for COVID breaches have gone unpaid, and a court summons has been issued.

Deputy Commissioner Anne Marie McMahon said, “The vast majority of people continue to follow public health advice and regulations. We thank them for their sacrifice. We know it is not easy, but it is making a difference. It is appreciated by all Gardaí.”

“Unfortunately, despite the constant public health advice, we are still seeing people attending house parties and other large social gatherings.”

“Going to such gatherings puts yourself, your loved ones, and everyone else you come into contact with after of getting COVID-19.”