Irish Travellers have been asked to stay at home and keep their distance to protect their family and friends during the coronavirus crisis.
Gardai and Traveller support groups have come together to offer advice and guidance to members of the travelling community as cases of COVID-19 continue to rise.
Chris McDonagh, from The Travelling Mediation Service, said members of his community need to protect their family and protect themselves.
He said: "I know the importance in our culture of family, I'm from a big family myself, but at this moment we are putting them at risk.
"So to protect our families and ourself, please, we must stay at home.
"Because every time we call around we have every chance of spreading the virus.
"And if we keep calling to each others homes, unfortunately people will get sick and the reality is people will die.
"So, please stay at home and keep your social distance."
And gardai appealed to the travelling community to strictly abide by social distancing rules when attending funerals.
A Garda spokeswoman said: "We are very mindful of the grief and suffering for families when a loved one passes away.
"And we understand the importance of funerals as a way to show respect and support.
"Physical distancing is particularly important in relation to funerals where traditionally large groups gather in one place.
"It is essential that to keep everybody safe, we strictly apply physical distancing and don't allow gatherings at hospitals, wakes or funerals.
"These restrictions also apply to visiting sick people in hospital.
"Difficult though it is our advice is that memorial services can be held at future dates to properly remember your loved ones."
