Waterford Minister of State John Halligan is calling for the full weight of the law to be brought down on those who threaten public safety during the Covid-19 crisis.
It's after a teenager was arrested in Dungarvan on Monday for allegedly coughing at people on purpose.
There have been several reports of the prank being carried out nationwide.
Minister John Halligan says he's appalled by it:
"To me, it's beyond disgust, to think that people would be so irresponsible and endanger people's lives particularly those most vulnerable.
"I would call on the Gardai to use every means at their disposal to make sure that these people are brought to justice - whatever it takes."
He says the prank is making vulnerable people in our communities feel unsafe:
"Although some young people may see this as a prank, this is just driving fear into people at a time when we need everybody pulling together.
"My message to people is: do not do this, it's not funny, it's very serious and I think there will be very serious consequences for people who do this when they are caught by the guards."
Minister Halligan is appealing to people to follow Government advice:
"Social distancing is everything - if the virus has nowhere to go we will eradicate it.
"I think what the government are doing is pragmatic, they're asking people not to congregate in large numbers - four at the most.
"Wash your hands consistantly, washing your hands in soapy water for 20 seconds will remove the virus from your hands.
"The big thing here is social distancing."
