DONEGAL County Council has warned that physical distance protocols must be followed at beaches, parks and walking trails otherwise they will have to close.
The issue of large crowds congregating in public places was well documented over the weekend and in their latest Covid-19 statement the local authority said the voluntary compliance of the general public with the physical distancing will allow these facilities to remain open and available.
The Council yesterday announced the closure of the visitor’s centre and toilets and introduced restrictions to certain vehicular access at Slieve Liag cliffs and today they announced that Lisfannon Beach between Fahan and Buncrana will be completely closed.
“The Council requests that people stay at home as much as possible but when visiting the local public amenities that are open to obey the fundamental rules at this time including:
1. Everyone to stay at least 2m apart;
2. Groups to be no greater than 4 persons;
3. Do not congregate at entrance points – when you arrive, move on as quick as you can;
4. Bring your own water and snacks and avoid ice cream vans and the like where big crowds tend to gather with no means of observing the proper protocols;
5. If you arrive at an amenity that is already crowded, move on and find somewhere else or come back when the crowd has cleared;
6. Follow any directions given on signage or by people in charge; and,
7. Take personal responsibility and understand the relevant government protocols which are in wide circulation.
“The Council has been liaising with the Gardai who have confirmed that they will be patrolling beaches and public amenities and other locations where crowds gather. They will be taking steps to ensure that social/physical distancing is being observed and will disperse crowds of more than four persons. Particular emphasis will be placed on locations that have already experienced crowds who have already flouted the government’s guidance.
“The Council acknowledges the huge steps taken by the general public over a short number of weeks. It is something that none of us could have imagined would be needed in such a short space of time. People have had to make huge adjustments and sacrifices in many aspects of their daily lives from family, jobs, businesses and financially. For our many visitors, we are asking them not to cancel their trips to Donegal but instead to postpone them until a time we are in a position to once again offer a warm welcome to our beautiful County.
“At this time we are seeking the help and co-operation of everyone to take another step and make one more push against COVID-19 to keep each other safe in our public areas and amenities.”
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