"The vast majority of people are complying with the non-essential travel regulations. This is very welcome."
An Garda Síochána has said it has issued almost 1,000 fines to members of the public for non-essential travel.
As of close of business on Thursday, 21 January, Gardaí have issued 771 fines for non-essential travel while approximately 200 fines are currently being checked and processed.
Gardaí said they will be continuing high visibility patrols and checkpoints at public amenities across the country this weekend in support of public health regulations and warned the public to plan their activities and not travel outside their 5km limit except for essential reasons.
It was also noted if a driver is found to be in breach of the non-essential travel regulations that not only can the driver be fined, but their adult passengers as well.
This is also the case for adults in groups undertaking activities such as cycling or walking – every adult in such a group can be fined.
Deputy Commissioner for Policing and Security John Twomey said, "The vast majority of people are complying with the non-essential travel regulations. This is very welcome.
"However, there are still some people who are not compliant. These regulations are in place to protect public health. At a time when significant numbers of people are dying or seriously ill we all need to do all we can to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
"If people want to protect our health service and support our doctors, nurses and other front-line workers who are putting themselves in harm’s way every day to tackle Covid-19 then they should stay home.
"They should only make essential journeys, reduce their contacts, practice social distancing, and wash their hands. Please stay safe and keep others safe by staying home.”
