The Taoiseach will meet the Garda Commissioner tomorrow to assess if gardaí require additional powers or resources to tackle the problem of people congregating to consume takeaway alcoholic drinks.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly and Justice Minister Helen McEntee will also attend the discussions with Drew Harris.
The Government had considered bringing in regulations to allow An Garda Síochána impose fines on people who gathered to consume takeaway drinks from pubs.
However, a memo to that effect - compiled by Mr Donnelly - was withdrawn just before Cabinet last Tuesday.
The three coalition leaders, along with the Health and Justice Ministers, decided to consult with gardaí first before adopting any additional enforcement measures.
Earlier today, An Garda Síochána confirmed it had increased patrols with a focus on people gathering in large groups in public spaces.
There will be increased Garda activity on foot, bikes and vehicle patrols in identified public spaces, a statement said.
Gardaí said they would maintain a significant presence on roads, and would continue static and rolling checkpoints, to check compliance with travel restrictions.
Checks on retail and business premises to ensure compliance with public health measure will also continue.
Gardai are out on foot patrol in Galway City tonight. In support of the public health guidelines An Garda Siochana are stepping up patrols and engagement.#StaySafe #HoldFirm #InThisTogether pic.twitter.com/LvCQG0zDl0
— Garda Info (@gardainfo) November 19, 2020
Since 30 October, gardaí say there have been seven alleged breaches of public health measures, eight alleged breaches by licensed premises, 29 alleged breaches by retail premises and one alleged breach for face coverings regulations.
To date there have been 493 Covid-19 related prosecutions.
Deputy Commissioner, Policing and Security, John Twomey said: "While it has been disappointing at times to witness some activities by small numbers of individuals and groups, I am encouraged by the overwhelming support and compliance being demonstrated right throughout our communities supporting Covid-19 public health guidelines.
Garda control room in Anglesea St. keeping a watchful eye over Cork city. There will be an increase of patrols and engagement, particularly in relation to large groups gathering in open spaces.#StaySafe #HoldFirm #inthistogether pic.twitter.com/4El12Zk84z
— Garda Info (@gardainfo) November 19, 2020
"An Garda Síochána will focus our activities this weekend on these activities which are causing concern to the majority in our society."
