More than 100 people have been fined for Covid breaches in Westmeath
New figures have shown that, to date, more than 100 fines have been issued in the Westmeath Garda Division for breaches of the Covid-19 public health guidelines.
A total of 106 fines have been imposed for breaches of the rules in the county by the close of business yesterday (Thursday).
This was up from a total of 72 fines that had been recorded in Westmeath as of the previous Thursday, February 12, indicating that 34 fines had been issued in the county within the past week.
Gardai can impose fines, or fixed penalty notices, of varying amounts for a range of offences. People can be fined €500 for organising house parties or events, or for travelling to a port or airport to leave the State without a reasonable excuse.
Attendees of house parties can be fined €150, while €100 fines can be issued for non-essential travel within Ireland. Refusing to wear a face covering on public transport or in certain designated indoor spaces can result in an €80 fine.
A statement from the Garda press office today said officers were continuing to find groups gathering for house parties or other reasons that were in breach of the regulations.
It said nationwide checkpoints and high-visibility patrols at public amenities across the country would be continuing this weekend in support of public health regulations.
"This week the tragic milestone of 4,000 COVID-19 deaths was reached," said Deputy Commissioner for Policing and Security, John Twomey.
"That is 4,000 people that were loved. That is 4,000 people that had family, friends and neighbours. That is 4,000 of our fellow citizens.
"While the vast majority of people are heeding the advice, there are still some who are not complying with public health regulations. In doing so, they are putting themselves, those they love, and those they know at risk of catching of a virus that could, unfortunately, result in serious illness or death.
"We all have an individual and collective responsibility to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please stay home, reduce your contacts, maintain social distancing, and wash your hands."