Dawn Garda operation enforcing new lockdown swings into action in Kilkenny

A major high visibility Garda operation in support of the newly imposed public health measures is in full swing throughout Kilkenny city and county this morning.

Members of the local garda units are out engaging Kilkenny communities and commuters in their effort to assist the public and enforce the new rules for the duration of the  Level 5 lockdown, which will be in place for six weeks.

From this morning, An Garda Síochána are introducing a range of measures including a large of number of static and rolling checkpoints, high visibility community engagement patrols, maximisation of operational ability and ongoing support for the most vulnerable.

The measures are being introduced to ensure compliance with public health guidelines and regulations following the Government’s decision that the country should move to Level 5 under the Framework for Living with Covid-19.

Overall, there will be mlre than 2,500 extra gardaí on duty nationwide as part of the expanded Operation Fanacht. The 132 static checkpoints on motorways introduced earlier this month will remain and will be supplemented by hundreds of rolling checkpoints on main and secondary roads.

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said: “There was very good compliance by the public with the travel restrictions when they were in place before. It is vital that we see that high level of compliance again this time. The public health advice is clear. This will help save lives.

“In particular, we would ask people to think about their journeys and not exercise or travel outside the 5km limit unless it meets the essential criteria.

“An Garda Síochána is continuing with our graduated response based on our tradition of policing by consent.

“This is a difficult time for everybody, but if we all work together we can reduce the spread of Covid-19 and protect our families, friends and neighbours,” the Commissioner added.