37 pubs facing prosecution for public health and licensing breaches

"However, there remains a minority who are putting their employees, their customers and their local community at risk of getting Covid-19."

An Garda Síochána has announced that a total of 37 premises were found to potentially be in breach of public health regulations or licensing laws across Ireland. From 3 July to 12 July, Gardaí carried out thousands of checks across the country on licensed premises under Operation Navigation to support public health guidelines. The vast majority of premises were found to be compliant with the regulations and licensing laws, however, 37 instances of potential breaches were reported, even after Gardaí provided the premises with the opportunity to rectify the situation. In each of these cases, Gardaí found customers consuming alcohol with no evidence of food also being consumed and no evidence of receipts to show that food had been sold. Files will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions in each of these cases. An Garda Síochána said that it was using a graduated policing response based on its tradition of policing by consent, and used force as a last resort. "The continued high level of compliance among licensed premises is very welcome," Deputy Commissioner, Policing and Security, John Twomey said. "However, there remains a minority who are putting their employees, their customers and their local community at risk of getting Covid-19. "Customers of such licensed premises also have a responsibility to play their part in reducing the spread of Covid-19 to protect their family, friends and neighbours.” Gardaí said Operation Navigation will continue this weekend.