Gardaí intervened in an organised 'car meet' of around 800 people who were gathered in contravention to public health guidelines in Co Cork last night.
More than 250 cars were in attendance at the event at Eastgate in Little Island yesterday evening.
When Gardaí visited the scene, they observed 700 to 800 people gathered and "very little evidence of social distancing, wearing of face coverings or general compliance with public health guidelines".
The majority were people aged in their 20s, with some men in their 30s or 40s who were accompanied by young children also at the meeting.
Participants had travelled from outside the greater Cork area and from various parts of Munster.
Speaking last night, the Senior Garda Inspector at the event described it as "a disgraceful gathering of persons, despite the health advice in the last few days".
The large group dispersed quickly, with no public order incidents reported.
One man, aged in his late 20s, was arrested for drunkenness offences and was later charged and bailed to appear in court at a later date.
Additionally, one car was seized under Section 41 of the Road Traffic Act.
Gardaí say last night's gathering appears to have been organised on social media.
Under current rules, it is a criminal offence to organise events attended by more than 15 people.
Gardaí are reminding the public that the COVID-19 pandemic remains a public health crisis and is a real threat to everyone, particularly the most vulnerable in our society.
They are also appealing to everyone to comply with Public Health Guidelines and Regulations.
Main image: File photo. Picture by: Eamonn Farrell / RollingNews.ie
