Irish holidaymakers have been warned they may face prison and receive a criminal record as they continue to jet abroad despite COVID restrictions.
Warnings are being issued as some people are ignoring the current travel restrictions, accepting the related fine as part of the cost of their holiday.
Gardai are waiting for a number of families to return from foreign holidays so they can issue a court summons according to The Irish Times.
Gardaí are currently issuing a €500 fine to people found in breach of the travel restrictions before urging them not to travel.
But the Cabinet is to debate legislation today regarding increasing the fine to €2,000.
Gardai have started formally instructing travellers in breach to comply with the law under powers given to them under Section 31(a) (7) of the Health Act 1947.
Anyone who does not abide by these rules is committing a criminal offence and may be prosecuted.
This may result in a criminal record with the offence including a prison sentence of up to one month and along with a €1,000 fine.
Gardai have highlighted that this has been enough to put people off their non-essential journeys, however a small number are deciding to continue with their holidays, resulting in court summons being prepared.
As of February 12th, gardai have issued almost 5,000 fines for non-essential travel, including 132 fines for non-essential travel to ports and airports.
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