Garda investigation continues into weekend’s city centre protest

GARDAI say they are investigating some issues connected with the anti-mask protest which took place in Dublin on Saturday.

The event, which was organised by Health Freedom Ireland, with support from Yellow Vest Ireland, drew a large crowd to a demonstration held near the Custom House.

However, when asked if Gardai would be investigating any potential breach of coronavirus regulations, which state that no more than 15 people should meet outdoors at any one time, a garda spokesperson said public health guidelines on social distancing and management of events are not penal provisions.

“Where potential breaches of the public health regulations are identified a file is submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for a direction as to how to proceed,” the Garda spokesperson said.

Four men were arrested at the event; one for breach of the peace, two for public order offences and another for possession of an offensive weapon.

“An Garda Síochána has no role in permitting or authorising protest marches or gatherings, there is no permit/authorisation required for such events,” the spokesperson continued.

“An Garda Síochána encourages organisations/individuals organising such events to liaise with An Garda Síochána in advance to assist in the safe and peacefully organisation of the event.

“The Health Act 1947 (Section 31A-Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (No.3) Regulations 2020 are currently in force until the 31st August, 2020 which place restriction on persons organising events to maximum 200 persons outdoors.

“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 engage, educate, encourage and, as a last resort, enforce.

“Where potential breaches of the Public Health Regulations are identified a file is submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for a direction as to how to proceed.

“As per the Government Health Guidelines, the section titled ‘Mass Gatherings’ refers to ‘Outdoor gatherings and events are limited to 15 people’.

“Public Health guidelines on Social distancing and management of events are not penal provisions.”