Gardai can still fine you for breaking two Covid rules even after Ireland's massive reopening

The majority of Ireland's Covid restrictions were lifted over the weekend after an address to the nation by Taoiseach Micheal Martin on Friday.

From Saturday, pubs and restaurants returned to normal opening times, nightclubs reopened and the Covid pass requirement was rescinded.

Social distancing rules were removed, while restrictions on numbers attending indoor and outdoor events no longer apply

Additionally, the phased return to offices began on Monday meaning thousands of workers potentially returned to workplaces again.

However, despite the edge back towards normal life, there are still some restrictions in place until February 28.

A vaccination or recovery certificate will still be needed for international travel, with protective measures in primary and secondary schools and early year settings to remain in place.

People wearing face masks on the Luas in Dublin. (Gareth Chaney/Collins Photos)

There is also a requirement to self-isolate if you have symptoms of Covid-19 and close contact guidance will remain in place.

Additionally, masks are still required in some settings, including:

• Public transport, taxis and at stations/airports/ports
• Retail premises (including shopping centres, libraries, cinemas, theatres, museums, post offices, banks), public offices and at premises providing specified services and businesses (incl. salons, hairdressers, travel agents, laundries, dry cleaners, bookmakers)
• Customer-facing roles in premises where food and beverages are sold for consumption on the premises

Failure to wear a face-covering in one of the settings listed above could lead to a fine as there are two fines that gardai can still issue under their pandemic powers.

During Covid-19, various regulations give An Garda Siochana additional powers and for certain offences, the public can be fined a fixed amount.

The two offences that still attract fines of €80 each are:

• Not wearing a face covering on public transport, without a reasonable excuse
• Not wearing a face covering in a retail outlet, or other specified premises, without a reasonable excuse

If you do not pay it within 28 days, you can be prosecuted in court.

Gardai can issue the fixed penalties under the Health Act 1947 (Fixed Payment Notice and Dwelling Event Provisions) (COVID-19) (No.2) Regulations 2021.