A large Gardai presence was visible in Waterford city centre this afternoon as part of a policing plan in relation to an event that's believed to be taking place.
Locals in the area were curious after seeing quite a number of officers on patrol and the Gardai helicopter in the sky.
"There is a massive presence of Gardai in Waterford city. Anyone know what is going on?" was a comment that was made on social media while another person remarked: "I went down to Waterford at around 10:30 this morning, the bridge was blocked with Gardai and I went around by the toll bridge and they were stopping there too."
A Garda spokesperson released the following statement which explains the increased presence in Waterford: "Gardaí are operating a policing plan in Waterford City centre today, Saturday, March 13, in relation to an event believed to be taking place.
"An Garda Síochána has no role in permitting or authorising protest marches or gatherings, there is no permit/authorisation required for such events. A decision as to whether any protest takes place rests solely with organisers."
The statement adds: "There are a number of Public Health measures currently in place including regulations surrounding essential travel. An Garda Síochána will investigate any breaches of these regulations.
"Where Gardaí find potential breaches of the public health regulations a file is prepared for the DPP in each case or a Fixed Payment Notice is issued where appropriate."
