DUBLIN: The Garda intervention was strengthened in order to bring the COVID-19 spread under control and to more effectively enforce the Level 5 restrictions introduced in the country. Gardaí have designed a major high visibility policing operation to support the new public health restrictions. Over 2500 Garda will be deployed per day for this operation. 132 Static and mobile checkpoints and community patrols will be available to assist the elderly and the vulnerable.
Training at Garda College has been suspended for the next nine weeks. The 260 trainee guards, their teachers and administrative staff have been deployed for Level 5 restrictions. Garda said there will be a high level of patrolling in parks, beauty spots, beaches and public amenities.
The Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said the public health advice was clear and would help save lives. Deputy Commissioner John Twomey said Garda members would pay special attention to helping the lonely and vulnerable during the pandemic. He also said that medicine prescriptions and pensions would be delivered and distributed. “If people need such assistance or know someone who does, please contact your local garda station. We are here to help,” Deputy Commissioner said.
Victims of domestic violence will also receive assistance. Women’s Aid says domestic violence is on the rise during this period. Last lockdown saw a 43% increase in phone calls from women seeking help regarding domestic violence. Sarah Benson, chief executive of Women’s Aid, said callers are reporting increased anxiety about abusive partners continuing to work from home.
The Garda revealed that there were thousands of contacts have been made with victims of domestic abuse under Operation Faoiseamh. More than a hundred prosecutions have been commenced, along with several arrests.