‘Take social distancing seriously’

There has been widespread concern that many people are still seemingly oblivious of the potentially lethal consequences of ignoring expert and government requirements to keep a two metre distance from each other, stay indoors and to avoid human contact to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The weekend saw crowds landing at beaches in Inishowen and Benone, and gangs of youths continuing to congregate across the north west.

Inishowen Garda Superintendent Eugene McGovern said that this was a major issue in Buncrana, with many visitors from outside the jurisdiction arriving at the weekend.

“We had significant traffic, people out and about unfortunately not complying with government and medical expert requirements on social distancing. The guidelines here are pretty strict and we ask people visiting to adhere to our restrictions. They need to think about not just themselves but the other people they are putting at risk.”

Some youths meanwhile are continuing to attend parties and socialise, he said.“People have to remember they are putting children at risk by allowing them to go there in the first place, and then in turn children are putting relatives and others at risk.”

Supt. McGovern said the next few weeks were ‘very important’, adding that while most people were adhering to restrictions there was a “cross section of people” who were not. “Everybody needs to police them, this is not just a matter for police. If people see other people disregarding the restrictions, tell them: ‘Stay away from me; you are putting everybody at risk’.”

Police in Derry meanwhile have highlighted a shocking incident they witnessed in St. Columb’s Park on Sunday night after complaints of youths gathering and drinking.

“Most of these youths ran off when we attended, but some took the time to shout abuse at police, thinking it was hilarious to shout that they all had coronavirus before coughing over each other,” a spokesperson said, adding: “If any of those children were unknowing carriers, they may have just infected their friends who could well be going home to possibly infect their entire family.”

Police in Derry urged families: “Please speak to your children about how serious the current situation is. It might just save a life.”