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An Garda Síochána warned the public that it will continue with “high visibility” operations as the State moves from Level 5 to Level 3 of coronavirus restrictions overnight.
Operations will focus on the newly launched “night economy” and the implementation of travel restrictions, the Garda said.
While nonessential shops, museums, movie theaters, and houses of worship reopen Tuesday and restaurants reopen Friday, travel restrictions remain in place, and home visitation and inter-county travel do not. they are allowed until December 18.
Under Operation Fanacht, more than 100 Garda checkpoints will be installed on major routes, supported by a mobile checkpoint program. Garda on duty will focus on the implementation of the inter-county travel guidelines. Static checkpoints will operate during off-peak hours, from 10 am to 4 pm and from 7 pm to 9 pm
Fixed checkpoints on motorway and expressway routes will no longer be in place, but “high-visibility patrols will be conducted in key cities, urban and commercial locations in the lead up to Christmas,” said the Garda.
“There will also be patrols that will focus on the nighttime economy. In this, An Garda Síochána will remain in close contact with retail and authorized establishments. “
Controls will be resumed at the facilities authorized under Operation Navigation. Active investigation of domestic abuse will continue, as will support for victims under Operation Faoiseamh, and the “community engagement activity” will continue to focus on the vulnerable and those who feel isolated, particularly at Christmas.
“Gardaí will continue to use the 4Es approach of engaging, explaining and encouraging, and only as a last resort, enforcement,” he said. “A Garda Síochána can only enforce criminal regulations. It has no powers to enforce public health guidelines. “
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said there had been “very good public compliance with health advice and regulations” during the pandemic and that it was “critical” that this continue.
“While people can do more activities and travel more starting December 1, we must all remember that Covid-19 is still with us and we must act accordingly. We must all continue to play our role by following public health advice. This is the best way to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our neighbors. “
Deputy Commissioner John Twomey said the main goal was to keep people safe. “Also, while the lead up to Christmas is a joyous time for many people, for some it can be lonely and difficult. An Garda Síochána will put particular emphasis in the coming weeks on reaching out to people who are vulnerable or feel isolated. We are here to help in any way we can. If you know someone who is struggling or needs help, please contact your local Garda station and we will do our best. Even remote social chat can make a big difference for people at this stressful time. “
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