GARDAI GATECRASHED a gathering of more than 100 people that took place in a shed in Cork.
Officers raided the party in Blarney, Co Cork at around 11pm on Thursday, January 7.
They found a large number of revellers congregated around a large shed near the popular tourist town.
Gardai were first tipped off by local residents, who complained of hearing noise, music and partying coming from the large building.
Officers moved in to disperse the crowd while several names were also taken and a file on the incident is also being prepared.
A video, filmed from inside the party, showed people stood closely together dancing with flashing lights and music playing.
The majority of those in attendance were said to be under the age of 25 with many in their late teens.
Few, if any, were wearing masks or adhering to social distancing restrictions.
All of those in attendance were informed they were in breach of the rules and ordered to leave.
Many of those present at the party were not from the local area having travelled from miles around to attend.
That was despite the government placing a five-kilometre travel restriction amid spiralling Covid-19 case numbers across Ireland.
No arrests were made during the raid though several names were taken, and files are being prepared by the Director of Public Prosecutions.
A Garda spokesperson said: “On January 7 at around 11pm, Gardaí attended an incident in Blarney where a large gathering in excess of 100 people was taking place in a shed.
“Gardai intervened and stopped the event and the gathered crowd was dispersed without any public order incidents.
“The Health Act 1947 (Section 31A-Temporary Restrictions) (Covid-19) (No.10) Regulations 2020, as amended, are currently in force.
“An investigation under The Health Act 1947 has commenced in respect of the organisation and attendance by persons at this event and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
“Personal social responsibility, wearing of face coverings and social distancing are public health guidelines and should be followed by all individuals.
“The Covid-19 Pandemic remains a public health crisis and An Garda Siochana continues to appeal to all citizens to demonstrate personal and social responsibility to comply with Public Health Guidelines and Regulations, in order to continue to save lives."
