Gardaí have launched a new high visibility policing plan ahead of this weekend - in place as of 7am this morning until midnight on Sunday.
Set up in an effort to help curb the spread of Covid-19, the new nationwide plan will run alongside Operation Fanacht and Operation Navigation. Aiming to provide support for the vulnerable and stop criminal activity, it will allow Gardaí to ensure that public health guidelines are being adhered to.
It's believed that the plan will work according to three key strands, those being:
- community engagement
- crime prevention patrols
- crime detection checkpoints
Extra Garda checkpoints will be in place across the country with increased Garda presence also expected in public areas such as parks and other such popular attractions. The new plan comes after level four guidelines were announced for three Irish counties with more stringent restrictions now in place for Donegal, Cavan and Monaghan.
Commenting on the new nationwide plan, Deputy Commissioner of Policing and Security John Twomey said:
"Since the start of the pandemic, garda members throughout the country have been helping the vulnerable and those who feel isolated.
"This involved simple, but important tasks such as collecting their prescription, delivering their pension, or even socially distanced contact.
"If people need such assistance or know someone who does, please contact your local garda station. We are here to help."
Government has also confirmed that though Gardaí will not be granted additional powers to enter private homes, they still have the power to prosecute the organisers of indoor or outdoor events that violate public health guidelines.
