The number of partygoers fined by gardaí amid Ireland's third Covid-19 lockdown has almost doubled over the past month.
Some 657 fines of €150 for attending events in dwellings have been handed out so far this month, compared to 362 fines in January.
A further 207 fines of €500 have been handed out to event organisers, compared to 90 fines in January.
In an update on fines issued for breaches of Level 5 restrictions, An Garda Síochána said a total of almost 9,500 fines had been distributed in the first two months of the year.
The figures for February, covering up to the 25th of the month, show that 3,733 people were fined €100 for leaving their home without a reasonable excuse, compared to 3,833 in January.
International travel
On international travel, 341 fines of €500 were handed out in February for non-essential travel to airports and ports, while 60 people not ordinary resident in the State were fined €100 following their arrival.
A further 88 people were also fined €80 in February for the non-wearing of face coverings.
In a statement, gardaí said that officers were continuing to find groups gathering at house parties, social gatherings and for exercise in breach of public health regulations.
“These are not just breaches of regulations but are a risk to the individuals involved, their families and loved ones, and continue to put everybody’s health and the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic at risk,” the statement said.
“Recent surveys have shown that the majority of people believe that they are doing the right thing, but the reality is that the level of casual contacts remains high.”
Weekend patrols
Officers will continue nationwide checkpoints and high visibility patrols at public amenities, parks and beauty spots across the country this weekend in support of public health regulations.
Gardaí have issued a reminder that Covid-19 travel restrictions do not apply to those subject to domestic violence or facing a risk of harm.
Garda Deputy Commissioner of policing and security, John Twomey said: “The vast majority of people are complying with the public health regulations. This is vital in bringing down the Covid-19 infection rate. We know it has meant major sacrifices for people and we thank them for their great efforts.
“We all have a role to play in tackling the spread of Covid-19. This is an individual and collective responsibility.
“Unfortunately, there appears to be some people who don’t believe it is their responsibility. Having such an attitude puts themselves, their loved ones and anyone they come into contact with at risk of getting a virus that has killed more than 4,000 of our fellow citizens.”
