by Q Radio News
People living in Northern Ireland could face a €100 (£88) fine if they are caught travelling across the border into the Republic of Ireland without a reasonable excuse.
The new rules came into force at 7am today (Monday) and apply to anyone who is “not ordinarily resident” in the Republic.
A Garda Síochána says the fine will apply to every adult in a car, not just the driver.
The new rules mean the Garda can turn back day trippers from Northern Ireland who cross the border.
Over 3,500 people were fined in the Republic of Ireland for non-essential travel, according to figures up to the end of last week.
The An Garda Síochána statement said, "From Monday, 8 February 2021, if enforcement is required, Gardaí will issue a Fixed Payment Notice (FPN) for €100 to every adult present who is in breach of this regulation.
"For example, if the driver of a car has two adult passengers then each of the three adults in the car will receive a €100 fine."
Northern Ireland residents who have to cross the border for essential work or essential purposes, such as seeking medical treatment, will be exempt from fines.
Public health guidance in NI says people "should not travel in or out of Northern Ireland except where it is essential to do so".
You should not travel in or out of Northern Ireland except where it is essential to do so.
— nidirect (@nidirect) February 7, 2021
If you are arriving into NI from within the Common Travel Area, you must self-isolate upon arrival for 10 days.
Find out more: https://t.co/bLVqFlShnY@niexecutive @healthdpt pic.twitter.com/vt59bWwTTI
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