An Garda Síochána wants Dublin and Mayo football supporters – and all GAA fans – to enjoy this Saturday’s All-Ireland Football Final safely by following the public health guidelines and regulations.
An Garda Síochána has been liaising closely with the GAA at national and county level, as well with relevant Government Departments, on minimising the spread of COVID-19 among supporters before, during and after the match.
An Garda Síochána will continue its high visibility operation this weekend with patrols focused on key city and urban locations and, in particular, the night time economy.
An Garda Síochána and the GAA have stressed the need for supporters to remember their individual and collective responsibility to tackle the spread of COVID-19.
Deputy Commissioner, Policing & Security, John Twomey said, "Last weekend, the teams, county boards, and supporters of Limerick and Waterford showed great community spirit with very high levels of compliance with the public health guidelines and regulations. I want to thank them for that. It is vital that we see the same from all those involved in Dublin and Mayo.
"The All-Ireland Football Final is always an incredible occasion and this year it will be special for many people especially given the last nine months. However, COVID-19 doesn’t relax or let-up for an All-Ireland Final, no matter how historic. The virus is still spreading, it is still leading to serious illness and death.
"An Garda Síochána, along with the GAA, are committed to playing our part. We are asking GAA supporters to continue to play their part by following the public health guidelines and regulations.
"If you are somewhere to watch the match or celebrate afterwards and there are too many people there – leave. Limit your contacts. Maintain social distancing. Wash your hands regularly. Wear a face mask where appropriate. Remember, according to NPEHT, shouting and singing can easily spread COVID-19. People need to bear these things in mind when making decisions about where to support their team.
"We want everyone to enjoy the occasion safely so that they, their families and fellow supporters can have a happy and healthy Christmas and new year.
"The vast majority of licensed premises have been operating in compliance with public health regulations. It is critical this is maintained. Those who are not compliant should be aware that we will take action – up to and including enforcement - to bring them into compliance.”
From the outset in supporting the COVID-19 public health guidelines and regulations, An Garda Síochána has and will continue to adopt, a graduated policing response based on its tradition of policing by consent. This has seen Garda members use the 4Es - engage, explain, encourage and, as a last resort, enforce.
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Video supplied by the GAA
