Health and Safety at Garda Checkpoints – COVID-19

An Garda Síochána wish to thank the professional drivers on their continued co-operation and support during the COVID-19 crisis. However, there is a safety concern over the movement of these essential goods across the country as the Government restrictions continue.

As members of An Garda Síochána are continuing to conduct COVID-19 road checkpoints across the country, the issue of the Health and Safety of all involved is a priority. All drivers are asked to exercise extreme caution on approach and to slow down, reduce speed and prepare to stop while paying particular attention to the direction being given by the Garda member at the checkpoint.

It appears that certain drivers are anticipating being waved through the checkpoint and are approaching at a higher speed which would not allow them to stop safely if needed. This is causing a Health and Safety risk and An Garda Síochána is appealing to all drivers to prepare to stop at all checkpoints unless otherwise directed.

Where a separate lane has been created for Goods vehicles, the driver should travel at an appropriately slow speed to ensure the safety of the Garda members in the vicinity. To facilitate the movement of goods at this time An Garda Síochána is endeavouring to ensure that priority is given to commercial vehicles where possible, however, the co-operation of these drivers is needed to ensure the safety of all at these checkpoints.

Garda members due to COVID-19 social distancing guidance are directing vehicles to stop both from the nearside and/or the centre of the roadway. The Garda members may also communicate to the driver from the passenger side of the vehicle and drivers are asked to pay extra attention in circumstances where this is the case particularly when stopping or moving off.