Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Justice and Equality, Jim O’ Callaghan has welcomed new powers given to gardaí to restrict people’s movements under emergency health legislation introduced.
Gardaí have urged the public to stay at home for the Easter weekend – or they will face the consequences for breaching the restrictions.
Deputy O’Callaghan said: “This is a very serious health crisis we are currently battling so it’s important that the general public take the new measures introduced seriously. Penalties for non-compliance include fines of up to €2,500 and up to six months in prison. The new emergency health legislation has been implemented for the greater safety of the public.
“Gardaí have the power to arrest and detain those who breach the restrictions including those found exercising beyond 2km from their homes or those travelling for non-essential reasons. The new powers allow gardaí the power to assist the HSE in detaining someone judged to be at risk of spreading the virus who refuses to self-isolate.
“The country is facing severe challenges at present and we need to work together to try and lower the curve even further and this means staying at home. Gardaí have been given new powers to restrict people’s movements and gatherings and they will be implementing this for the greater good. People should be under no illusions that they will face consequences for breaching the restrictions,” concluded Deputy O’Callaghan.