The Covid-19 fine system is expected to go into effect by the end of the week

A fine system is expected to go into effect this week to increase compliance with Covid-19 restrictions.

The fines for non-compliance with public health regulations will likely take effect towards the end of this third week of Level 5 restrictions, according to the Irish Times.

Those who host or travel to house parties, refuse to wear a mask, or travel more than 5 km for non-essential reasons will face fines ranging from € 60 to € 2,500.

The Health Department said that the introduction of the system was an “urgent priority” for the government, but declined to say when the legal instrument promulgating the fines would be published and signed.

However, it is understood that officials are preparing to introduce the system later this week.

Application

Details of the fine system are being drafted by the Departments of Health and Justice and will be promulgated by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly.

According to the system, those who refuse to wear a mask or make non-essential trips will face initial fines of between € 60 and € 100, with a maximum fine of € 500 per repeat offense.

Those who host a house party will face fines of € 1,000 for the first offense and up to € 2,500 and six months in prison for repeat offenses.

However, enforcement issues have been raised as under the law, the Gardaí will not be allowed into homes to close house parties.

Those who fail to pay the fines can end up in court, where penalties include increased financial penalties, community service, and prison as a last resort.

Maximum fines were set in legislation last month, however exact amounts for specific offenses have yet to be determined.

Garda sources across the country have said they have not yet felt the urgent need to introduce the fine system and that compliance with Level 5 restrictions remains very high for the most part.