THE PSNI has said there will be increased patrols over Easter – including cars being stopped – with on-the-spot fines for breaking lockdown rules.
In the first ten days of the new regulations, 100 written warnings were issued across the North.
A move to the next level of enforcement – £60 fines – is now on the horizon.
Police in Derry have also been conducting patrols around the city and in parks talking to the public about the lockdown rules.
PSNI Derry City and Strabane say on its Facebook page: “On Thursday, Waterside NPT carried out a number of #COVID patrols across the area including Ness Country Park, Loughermore Forest and Muff Glen where we took the opportunity to educate people on the new rules, regulations and authority to fine people who are not adhering to the rules.
“We also visited the North West Transport Hub to ensure that all commuters travel was essential. We will be visiting again over the next few days to ensure all travel is essential.
“Thankfully the majority of persons we spoke with were completing essential and necessary travel.
“However, there were some others who were not completing essential travel and they have been sternly warned!”
Across the Derry border, gardai are continuing to stop cars heading from north to south for a weekend breaks despite the lockdown regulations.
Garda checkpoint on Wednesday afternoon at Bridgend as officers check driver details and reason for travel
It also emerged on Thursday that 600-700 PSNI officers are unavailable for work due to the coronavirus emergency.
The figure, revealed to the Stormont Justice Committee, represents around 10% of police ranks.
To help, the department of justice has agreed to fast-track police recruit training.
PSNI Chief Constable Simon Byrne told the daily press conference at Stormont on Thursday that the public would see more police patrols and “a different approach” from his officers in the coming days in order to prevent the spread of the virus.
Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill said it was crucial people behaved differently this Easter.
“We know that this is a special time this weekend and one where we normally get together, we congregate, we make dinner together, we sit down as a family together, we take trips, but this is not normal circumstances and if you behave as normal, more people will die,” she said.
Her plea was echoed by Health Minister Robin Swann, who praised the majority of people who were abiding by social distancing rules.
But he cautioned that the measures would remain in place for some time and may need to be strengthened.
Earlier, Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd said it was considered a breach of regulations to drive to a location to exercise.
The Republic of Ireland has a 2km limit on travel from home to take exercise, but there is no distance stipulation under the Northern Ireland or UK rules.
Mr Todd said: “The restriction regime is that you have to have a reasonable excuse to have a need to leave home.
“It is not just a reason but a need and I see no need for anybody to drive to take their daily exercise so that would be a breach.
“We will encourage you to go home.
“If not you may face a fine.”
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