As Covid-19 restrictions tighten in Ireland once again, An Garda Síochána has said that at this time, “we need more than ever to support the most vulnerable in our society, particularly our elderly and isolated”.

Under Level 5 restrictions, people should not leave their homes except for essential journeys or to avail of outdoor physical exercise within 5km of their home.

An Garda Síochána will, commencing today  (Thursday, December 31) and over the coming days, be carrying out “intensive mobile high-visibility checkpoints within local areas to engage, explain and encourage persons to support public health guidelines”. 

An Garda Síochána will continue to engage in high-visibility patrolling in key public areas, such as parks and recreational areas.

In a statement this afternoon, An Garda Síochána said:

The Covid-19 pandemic remains a real threat to all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable in our society.

“As a community-based police service, local Gardaí will continue to maintain personal interactions and, where needed, to assist and support people.

“As we have said before, at this time, we need more than ever to support the most vulnerable in our society, particularly our elderly and isolated.”

Operation Faoiseamh

An Garda Síochána added that is understands that the move to Level 5 may “once again, increase the anxiety and fear felt by those who may be victims of domestic abuse”.

Travel restrictions do not apply in the case of domestic violence or to escape a risk of harm, whether to the person or to another person.

If you are a victim of abuse or know of a family member or friend who is a victim of such abuse, An Garda Síochána asks for this to be communicated with them. 

If you are unable to make phone contact, please approach any member of An Garda Síochána on duty, on patrol or on a checkpoint and look for assistance.

An Garda Síochána said it will be “directing all of our resources to supporting communities during the coming weeks”.

The Garda College will remain closed until further notice and those resources will remain deployed in local communities.