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The Taoiseach will meet tomorrow with the Garda commissioner to assess whether gardaí requires additional powers or resources to address the problem of people congregating to consume alcoholic beverages to go.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly and Justice Minister Helen McEntee will also attend discussions with Drew Harris.
The government had considered introducing regulations to allow An Garda Síochána to impose fines on people who gathered to consume take-out drinks in pubs.
However, a memo to that effect, compiled by Donnelly, was withdrawn just before the Cabinet last Tuesday.
The three leaders of the coalition, along with the ministers of Health and Justice, decided to first consult with the gardaí before taking any further compliance measures.
Earlier today, An Garda Síochána confirmed that it had increased patrols with a focus on people gathering in large groups in public spaces.
There will be increased Garda activity on foot, bike and vehicle patrols in identified public spaces, according to a statement.
Gardaí said they would maintain a significant presence on the roads and continue with static and rolling checkpoints to verify compliance with travel restrictions.
Controls will also continue in commercial and retail premises to ensure compliance with the public health measure.
Gardai is on foot patrol in Galway City tonight. In support of the public health guidelines, An Garda Siochana is stepping up patrols and engagement.#Stay safe #Firm hold #In thisTogether pic.twitter.com/LvCQG0zDl0
– Garda Information (@gardainfo) November 19, 2020
Since October 30, Gardaí says there have been seven alleged violations of public health measures, eight alleged violations by authorized premises, 29 alleged violations by commercial premises, and one alleged violation of facial covering regulations.
To date there have been 493 prosecutions related to Covid-19.
Deputy Commissioner for Police and Security John Twomey said: “While it has been disappointing at times to witness some activity by a small number of individuals and groups, I am encouraged by the overwhelming support and compliance that is demonstrated across our communities that support Covid-19 public health guidelines.
The Garda control room on Anglesea St. watches over Cork City. There will be an increase in patrols and participation, particularly in relation to large groups gathered in open spaces.#Stay safe #Firm hold #inthistogether pic.twitter.com/4El12Zk84z
– Garda Information (@gardainfo) November 19, 2020
“An Garda Síochána will focus our activities this weekend on these activities that concern the majority of our society.”
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