Gardai are investigating a salon in Balbriggan after it opened its doors to customers despite lockdown restrictions.
The owner of C and N Beauty Rooms said she had reopened her business "purely for survival".
Level Five restrictions say all non-essential retail and services including hairdressers, beauticians, and barbers must remain closed.
Officers have launched an investigation into alleged breaches of public health regulations following a visit to the salon this morning.
Owner Christine McTiernan Newstalk's Kacey O’Riordan: "I have to put food on the table. I have to pay my rent. All my bills have to be paid.
"What is happening does not stop my bills from coming so I have to pay them. So yes, it is purely for survival I am doing this.”
A garda spokesman said: "Gardaí have attended a retail premises on Dublin Street in Balbriggan and are investigating alleged breaches of public health regulations.
"In respect of regulations, which are declared to be Penal Regulations under the Health Act 1947 as amended, An Garda Síochána continue to adopt the approach of the Four Es which see Gardaí engage, explain, encourage, and as a last resort, enforce.
"Where Gardaí find potential breaches of the public health regulations advices of the DPP will be sought or Fixed Payment Notices will be issued where appropriate."
A sign on the salon window said she has a Constitutional right to provide for her family.
She said: "I find it absolutely necessary for me to open my business both for our benefit and for the common good.
“I accept and acknowledge that the Constitution recognises all my rights – including the right to earn a living and provide for my family.
"I need to earn a living to pay my bills and in order to provide for our mental and physical health and wellbeing."
