Government decides to impose fines for violation of COVID restrictions in Ireland

DUBLIN: Government decides to impose fines for COVID violations in Ireland. The Cabinet COVID-19 subcommittee decided to impose fines on those who do not follow the rules related to COVID restrictions. The necessary legislation will be enacted soon.

But no final decision has been made on the amount of the fine. Despite the government’s decision, the penalty system will come into effect only if it is passed on the Dáil. So it may take some time.

It has been suggested that travel to other counties, except for unavoidable reasons, may cost €200 and €50 for not wearing a face covering. But it is not clear how to deal with those who refuse to pay the fine.

Violations of the pandemic rules such as not wearing face masks on public transport and organising illegal gatherings, are currently fined up to 2,500. Many, including ministers, are of the opinion that more proportionate and enforceable sanctions are needed.

The subcommittee, which includes leaders of three government parties and various ministers, discussed the latest advice, including the imposition of NPHET fines. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tony Holohan and Deputy Dr. Ronan Glynn also attended the meeting.

NPHET had last night informed the government in writing of its deep concern over the rising number of COVID-19 cases. But further restrictions were not recommended by the group.

The CMO said the profile of the disease is deteriorating. This is due to the increase in the number of people seeking treatment in hospitals.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly told the Dáil the R number for the country is 1.2. He said while the cases are rising, the R number has come down.

The latest figures show that 187 patients were being treated at the hospital last night. This is the highest number since June 2. The number of patients in the ICU is 31. This is the highest number since June 9. Meanwhile, HSE figures show that 116 people were infected with the virus in hospitals as of 8pm last night. The HSE also confirmed that there were 10 suspicious cases in the ICU.

Meanwhile, COVID-19 Special Committee Chairman Michael McNamara said the question of whether adequate measures had been taken to protect those living in nursing homes and long-term care facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic remained unanswered. McNamara said a public inquiry into what happened in the nursing homes in the early stages of the COVID-19 response should be conducted immediately.

He said patients who were discharged from acute hospitals to nursing homes in early March needed further clarification on whether adequate security measures had been put in place during this time.