A new system of graduated fines for people breaking Covid rules is being discussed by the cabinet this morning.
The measure will be used to enforce new level 5 restrictions, which come into force across the country tomorrow night.
The penalties may apply if someone breaks the 5 kilometre travel limit from their home.
They should also come into force if a person doesn't wear a face mask in shops.
We Can't Have "Two Tiers" - Coveney
Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney says the fines are aimed at making sure everyone is complying:
"We need to ensure that people abide by the new rules and regulations."
"So that we don't have two tiers here."
"One: which is the vast majority of people who are abiding by the rules and regulations for the greater good."
He added, "...and a small number of people not doing that."
"So we have to make sure the Gardaí have the powers to intervene when and where possible, and when necessary."
Statement from the Government on the exit strategy from Level 5 after claims the restrictions are just put in place to save Christmas: pic.twitter.com/PpV88l41DV
— Ben Finnegan (@_BenFinnegan) October 20, 2020
We Don't Regret Waiting Two Weeks - Coveney
Minister Simon Coveney also says the government doesn't regret not moving to Level 5 two weeks ago.
NPHET first recommended the stricter measures then.
"I dont think the country was ready two weeks ago."
"Not to move into the kind of restrictions that are now being agreed, to begin tomorrow night."
"What we've had over the last two weeks is time."
"To look in detail at the numbers and the trends."
"But also as importantly, we've had time to put the supports in place."
"You don't just announce these things overnight."
