Gardaí given unprecedented powers to enforce Covid-19 Lockdown (8April20)

Minister for Health Simon Harris has signed regulations to give the Gardaí unprecedented powers to enforce the Coronavirus/Covid-19 lockdown. As a result, between now and Sunday night, Gardaí can arrest and detain anyone who refuses to comply with the regulations. Defendants will face a maximum prison term of up to six months and a fine of up to €2,500 on conviction.

The regulations are based on the guidelines issued by the Government two weeks ago. Anyone exercising more than 2km from their home or with people from outside their household will be in breach. Anyone travelling beyond 2km for non-essential reasons will also be in breach. People can travel for a variety of other reasons. These include essential shopping, medical and veterinarian appointments, funerals, court dates and court mandated child visitation.

The Gardaí have never been given such sweeping powers before. Since 1947, the Government has had the power to grant the Garda and health authorities somewhat similar powers to limit the spread of tuberculosis but these were never enacted. Even at the time of the Emergency during World War two, a period when the Government had the power of censorship and internment without trial, there were no comparable restrictions on movement.

"Let’s face it: These new Garda powers are absurd"
https://gript.ie/lets-face-it-these-new-garda-powers-are-absurd/

"Make gardaí aware of Covid-19 rule breaches - Garda Commissioner"
https://www.rte.ie/news/coronavirus/2020/0408/1129218-coronavirus-legislation/

"Minister for Health Simon Harris signs regulations to give An Garda Síochána the power to enforce Covid-19 restrictions"
https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/e9d120-minister-for-health-simon-harris-signs-regulations-to-give-an-garda-/

Broadcast: RTÉ One News, 08/04/2020.