Gardaí are set to increase the number of high visibility patrols around Dublin in a bid to reduce the number of COVID-19 cases in the capital.
The Acting Chief Medical Officer Ronan Glynn has said that now is a "critical moment" in the fight against the virus.
He has appealed to people living and working in the city to reduce their social circles, practice social distancing and wear a mask.
75 of the 159 new cases of coronavirus reported yesterday were in Dublin, while more than half of them were associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case.
Gardaí are to increase their patrols on foot, in cars and on bikes throughout the county to support the public health guidelines, particularly in relation to social distancing and gatherings of large groups.
John Twomey, the Deputy Commissioner of Policing and Security, said: "There has been very good compliance with the public health guidelines to date. We want to thank the public for this.
"However, as the Acting CMO has said, in Dublin we are now entering a critical phase. As a result, we will have a high visibility presence throughout Dublin to support the public health guidelines and regulations.
"It is vital that people living in, working in and visiting Dublin limit their social interactions, maintain social distancing, wear face masks in shops and on public transport, and not gather in groups larger than outlined in the public health advice."
He added: "We know the considerable sacrifices people have made during the last six months, but individually and collectively we must continue to do all we can to protect our families, friends and neighbours.
"I would also like to re-iterate that An Garda Síochána continues to be here for anyone who feels vulnerable or isolated at this time. If you need help or assistance, please call your local Garda station. We are here to help and support you.”
Main image: A Garda on patrol in Dublin City Centre today. Photo: Leah Farrell/Rollingnews.ie
