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Garda\u00ed have commenced a nationwide operation to ensure compliance with the Government\u2019s latest coronavirus restrictions.<\/p>\nGarda\u00ed have commenced a nationwide operation to ensure compliance with the Government\u2019s latest coronavirus restrictions.<\/p>\n
Patrols will be run across the country during the weekend.<\/p>\n
The policing operation runs from Friday night until 7am on Monday and will involve thousands of garda\u00ed on foot, bike and mobile patrols.<\/p>\n
The force acknowledged that the \u201cvast majority\u201d of people in Ireland were behaving responsibly in respect of social-distancing measures.<\/p>\n
It said the focus of the operation would be on \u201cencouraging\u201d people to adhere to the latest clampdown.<\/p>\n
But it warned it would intervene where venues or outlets were not in compliance or where groups of people were not adhering to recommended measures.<\/p>\n
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said: \u201cAn Garda Siochana\u2019s priority is keeping people safe and that will continue this weekend. There will be a major policing plan across the country with high visibility of Garda members at key locations.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is vital that people adhere to the social-distancing guidelines. This will reduce the spread of Covid-19 and save lives.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe vast majority of people are complying with the guidelines and we want that to continue this weekend. By all of us working together, we can flatten the curve and keep our loved ones safe.\u201d<\/p>\n
Deputy Garda Commissioner John Twomey added: \u201cThese high-visibility patrols are to provide re-assurance and social-distancing advice to the public.<\/p>\n
\u201cGarda members will pro-actively engage positively with people.<\/p>\n
\u201cAn Garda Siochana will police as it has always done with the consent of the people.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is in everybody\u2019s interest that people comply with these measures.\u201d<\/p>\n