More Police Patrols Promised as Traffic Increase Causes Concern

Ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd has said that the PSNI will be conducting patrols and checks over the weekend and will also be coordinating activity with An Garda Siochana.

called on the public to act responsibly, only travel when necessary and continue to abide by the NI Executive regulations to help stop the spread of Covid19. It comes at a time when there has been a 'Slow But Steady Increase in Numbers of Vehicles on our Roads'

Speaking of the PSNI plans for this Bank Holiday weekend, Assistant Chief Constable Todd said: “The guidance from our Health Minister and the NI Executive, alongside the regulations, are clear; people should only leave home when they have a clear and essential reason for doing so.

“Since the beginning of the restrictions we have been aware of a slow but steady increase in the number of vehicles on our roads. While some of this can be explained by increased commercial activity and the travel of essential workers there is clearly a number of people who are not adhering to the regulations.

“Our preference is always for members of our communities to comply with the restrictions in place and throughout our activity over the weekend we will continue to engage, explain and encourage people to play their part to protect themselves and others. Enforcement will always be a last resort.”

Newry and Armagh MLA and Sinn Féin infrastructure spokesperson Cathal Boylan is also reminding people of the importance of staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic following reports of the increase in road traffic.

The Newry and Armagh MLA said “During the Covid-19 pandemic road traffic levels have fallen, which demonstrates people’s commitment to sticking to social distancing during the past seven weeks and it’s great to see.

"By sticking to social distancing, we help mitigate the spread of the virus, save lives and reduce pressure on our health service. It’s crucial that we don’t lose sight of this”.

Mr Boylan continued “However, since last week there has been an increase in the number of vehicles on the road. It’s important that only essential journeys are being made.

“Social distancing is a crucial element of our Covid-19 response.I would urge everyone to continue playing their vital role during this pandemic; stick to social distancing and help save lives.”