‘Let us know if you need help’ - Gardai at heart of Covid-19 response

ANN CASEY
With the streets of Meath's town and villages eerily quiet, the most noticeable presence in public are the Gardai, who are out in force looking after our elderly and vulnerable, enforcing social distancing and making sure people aren't making unnecessary travel.
In a time when most of us are keeping ourselves safe at home, the Gardai are among those on the frontline, making their contribution to the war on Covid-19.
Sgt Ronan Farrelly of Navan says Gardai in Meath have five new cars in their fleet to help out in the community during the lockdown.
“We are picking up prescriptions for people, getting them food and helping out other agencies and groups that are looking after the eldely and vulnerable,” he says.

Gardai on the beat head towards the Yellow Steeple

“We have access to all the volunteers groups right across the county, so let us know if you need help.“
He explains they have a list of the fantastic work being done by all groups right across the county by GAA, soccer, rugby clubs, Neighbourhood Watch, Community Alert, Meals on Wheels, residents associations and Red Cross looking after the old and vulnerable in the community.

“If you are doing anything in the community, let us know what group you are from, what area covered and how you are helping.
“We want to make sure that as much of the county is being covered as possible. We also want to ensure that no older or vulnerable person is left out. If there is a vulnerable person in your area and you would like us to get in contact with them, make contact through the local garda station.”
The Gardai have produced an Interactive PPN map to guide people to a point of contact in each community where help can be obtained. It is at www.meathppn.ie
Gardai in Meath are also out ensuring that people aren't making unnecessary journeys and are obeying the measures which are an essential part of fighting the spread of the virus and saving lives.

Sgt Farrelly says that the crime rate has definitely fallen in the last few weeks, but there are still drink drivers being caught.
He personally hasn't heard of any local gardai been threatened by someone coughing or spitting at them and he expects that new protective hoodies will be issued to the gardai in Meath shortly.
Gardai are also observing social distancing. Civilian staff are working from home and members have been spread out to other stations such as to avoid each other. The public are also asked to avoid calling to the garda station, but to ring the gardai, if they need help.