Public amenities, such as the Salthill Promenade, which have remained open despite the coronavirus restrictions, will only remain so if people comply with social distancing.
This is the message which the Galway City Council has issued, to remind people of the importance of social distancing when outside the home.
Over the past week, the weather has noticeably improved, resulting in many people using the promenade, but the numbers using it have drawn comment, and concern has been expressed. On Sunday, new markings were put along sections of the prom reminding walkers to stay a 2m distance from each other.
'We can beat this virus, but that means everyone respecting the advice from the Chief Medical Officer and the HSE'
"Galway City Council is committed to keeping as many amenities as possible open for the public but can only do so if the requirements for social distancing are complied with," a spokesperson for City Hall said. "Areas like the Prom have been extremely busy with the fine weather and this is a fantastic resource for mental health, provided people comply with social distancing."
Other public amenities which have remained open include Barna Woods, Merlin Woods, Terryland Forest, Balyloughane Beach, and Silverstrand. City Hall is calling on the public to also consider these as walking areas - "provided social distancing is applied" - and not exclusively focus on the prom.
Staff 'verbally abused' at supermarkets
Calls to adhere to social distancing have also been made by the Galway East TD, and Minister for Rural Affairs, Seán Canney. While he acknowledged that most people are observing the guidelines, he said those who are not are "irresponsible".
He said he was aware of instances, such as in supermarkets, where staff members had been "verbally abused" by some members of the public when they requested them to observe social distancing while shopping.
"The people who fail to practice social distancing are putting everyone at risk, including themselves," said Minister Canney. "Together we can beat this virus, but that means everyone respecting the advice from the Chief Medical Officer and the HSE."
