A SIGNIFICANT proportion of the Irish public believe US tourists refusing to adhere to Ireland’s quarantine rules upon arrival should be jailed, according to a poll from the Irish Mirror.
Under the current government rules, any holidaymakers visiting Ireland is expected to initially self-isolate for a minimum of two weeks.
However, there have been concerning reports of US tourists openly flouting these rules and continuing on with their vacation plans regardless.
Several travelling parties have been turned away from biking tours and restaurants amid concerns they could potentially contribute to the spread of Covid-19.
As a result, It would now appear that the majority of the Irish public are in favour of introducing stricter punishments for those found to be in violation of the rules.
According to a poll conducted by the Irish Mirror, as many as nine in 10 respondents felt US tourists who refuse to self-isolate upon arrival should be jailed.
Some 3,000 readers were polled, with the results proving conclusive to say the least.
While 90% were in favour of stricter punishments, just 10% felt the visitors should be allowed to continue enjoying their holiday in peace.
The increased concern comes as the US continues to set alarming records for the number of new cases of coronavirus recorded on its shores.
While Ireland has fared significantly better, the recent easing of some restrictions has led to an increase in the number of Covid-19 infections.
As a result, the next phase of reopenings in Ireland – including the reopening of pubs not serving food – has been delayed until early August at the earliest.
