There's no bank holiday from Covid.
That's the message from Gardai, the HSE and the local authority in Waterford.
They're thanking everyone for their work so far in stopping the spread of the virus and they're appealing to people to continue their impressive efforts.
Meanwhile, management of the University Hospital Waterford and the South / South West Hospital Group are appealing to the public to continue to follow the guidelines
Group Director of Nursing and Midwifery is Bridie O'Sullivan says as a country we're in a very good place
She praised the staff at University Hospital Waterford which HSE figures show low numbers of covid patients.
In an effort to deter people from travelling more than five kilometres, local authorities have restricted access to some attractions.
Kate Killeen White Chief Officer South East Community Healthcare chairs the HSE Crisis Management Team (CMT) and has acknowledged that the collective actions of communities in the region is clearly making a difference but it is crucial that everyone keeps up those efforts.
“We know it’s hard, especially in terms of being apart from families and friends but it is helping to protect and keep our communities - especially vulnerable people and healthcare workers - safe. I want to particularly appeal to young people - we in the healthcare community need you to keep that effort going for another while.”
Waterford Gárda Chief Superintendent, Pádraig Dunne warned that there will be a very visible Gárda presence across the South East this weekend, making sure that no one is travelling more than five kilometres from home without a valid reason.
“Our members will operate an extensive network of checkpoints this weekend, to ensure public compliance with the travel restrictions in place as part of Covid-19 public health guidelines. There has been very good compliance with the travel restrictions and we want to thank the public for this. However, it is vital that this continues over the coming days and weeks. It will save lives. In particular, we would ask people who are thinking of travelling to parks, tourist locations or holiday homes outside of the five kilometre limit this weekend not to do so. If you are stopped at a checkpoint, you will be turned back.”
