GARDAÍ BROKE UP a party at a house in Longford yesterday evening with a large number of attendees.
People inside the house met the gardaí with “persistent non-engagement” after Longford gardaí responded to reports of a party.
Gardaí are issuing a “significant number” of fixed penalty notices after the discovery of a “large gathering of people” at the house, including to the organiser and homeowner.
A man in his 20s was arrested at the scene under the Public Order Acts.
In a statement, An Gardaí Síochána said that “Longford gardaí received reports of a party occurring at a house in Palace Crescent, Longford Town, attended and attempted to engage with occupants”.
“Gardaí were met with persistent non-engagement from those inside the house,” gardaí said.
“As a result of information received and observations, gardaí obtained a warrant to search the premises under the Misuse of Drugs Act,” they said.
“Shortly after 9.30pm, Gardaí searched the house and discovered a large group of people present in breach of current Covid–19 Regulations.
“Gardaí engaged with those present and they eventually dispersed.”
Under the Health Act 1947 (Covid-19) Regulations 2020, gardaí can issue fixed penalty notices for breaches of Covid-19 restrictions.
Attending an unlawful social or recreational gathering in a home can result in a charge of €150, while organising an unlawful gathering carries a €500 charge.
If a fixed penalty notice is not paid within 28 days, the offender can be prosecuted in court.
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