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More than 100 people have been fined for violating coronavirus regulations while attending New Year’s Eve parties in Northern Ireland.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said on Friday that 126 people had been fined £ 200 each for attending house parties and 34 ban notices had been issued, also in respect of house parties.
Two penalty notices were issued to companies that continued to operate in violation of regulations.
Deputy Chief of Police Mark McEwan said that despite the coronavirus restrictions in place, New Year’s Eve had been a “very busy night” for police. The PSNI received 1,004 calls between 8 pm Thursday and 8 am Friday.
“Of particular concern was the number of domestic abuse incidents and, in the last 24 hours, we received reports of 86 domestic abuse incidents in homes in Northern Ireland,” he said. “As a result of this, the police made 38 arrests.”
A strict six-week shutdown began in the north on Valentine’s Day, with hospitality businesses open for takeout service only and a “curfew” in effect until January 2 excluding any indoor or air gatherings. free between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am
The deputy chief of police said it was “really disappointing that despite the health crisis due to the deadly virus, there were still people last night who deliberately decided to violate regulations and put themselves and others at risk.”
Assume the responsibility
However, he said the “vast majority” of people had behaved responsibly. And he added that it is important that people take the time to understand what is and what is not allowed under the new regulations, advise by way of guidance and assume responsibilities.
Where people don’t follow regulations, he said, the police will first get involved and explain the guide and the law and encourage them to “do the right thing.”
“However, when we are left with no choice but to enforce, we will take this action to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities and help protect our NHS,” he said.
On New Year’s Eve, Health Minister Robin Swann warned people against holding parties at home, saying the number of positive cases is a “reminder” that Covid-19 “thrives in company.”
The number of cases has risen significantly in recent days, with 1,929 people testing positive in the 24 hours through Thursday and another 11 deaths.
The Northern Health Department did not release daily coronavirus statistics on New Year’s Day, but said its Covid-19 dashboard would be updated on Saturday.
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