Garda traffic unit restricting movements after contact with Covid-19 case

Most of the Kerry Garda traffic unit are restricting movements after taking part in a training exercise with members from other divisions

More than 20 members of a Kerry Garda Division, including most of the traffic unit, are restricting movements after taking part in a training exercise with gardaí from other divisions, it has emerged.

It's understood the majority of the 28-member Garda Traffic Division in Kerry attended a training exercise over a week ago.

A garda from another county, who also attended the event, has tested positive for Covid-19.

Those who may have been exposed in the Kerry unit, based in Castleisland, are now restricting their movements as a precautionary measure, according to sources.

It's expected they will be stood down for a further week. 

The Garda Press Office confirmed the exposure and the restriction of movement but said it would not comment on individual units involved.

“An Garda Síochána in Kerry Division conducted an essential training exercise, in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines, as a result of which a number of members are currently ‘restricting movement’ in accordance with HSE Public Health guidelines,” it said.

“There is currently no impact on Operation Fanacht or other services of An Garda Síochána in the Kerry Division,” a spokeswoman added.

Meanwhile, Gardaí in the Midlands have searched a number of suspected Shebeen premises.

Three premises were searched in Laois, Meath and Westmeath as part of the investigation.

Gardaí said that during the searches substantial quantities of alcohol were seized along with beer taps, coolers, kegs, spirit dispensers and other bar items.

All of those present were identified by gardaí and no arrests were made in this phase of the investigations, gardaí said.

The investigations were launched following a number of reports from the public.

“An Garda Síochána would appeal to anyone with information about the operation of illegal Shebeen’s to contact their local Garda Station," a statement said.