ALARMING FOOTAGE from inside a packed-out illegal pub has surfaced online.
The video, filmed at a shebeen operating near Athy in Co Kildare earlier this week, shows revellers displaying little regard for Ireland’s strict coronavirus measures.
Under Ireland’s current Level 5 lockdown restrictions, all pubs across Ireland are required to close, save for those able to serve food via takeaway services.
The public has also been instructed to remain within five kilometres of their home.
As a result several shebeens - illegal pubs - have popped up across the country.
In this instance, dozens can be seen partying in close proximity to one another in the illegal bar with one drinker seen literally swinging from the rafters.
The celebrations were reportedly linked to the result of a local GAA match earlier this week or possibly last weekend, with many in the video pictured wearing GAA shirts.
Video from the unruly celebrations first came to light on social media, sparking a furious reaction from people across Ireland who have stuck to the strict rules.
“Disgusting selfishness. No respect for the medically vulnerable or for healthcare workers,” one person wrote.
“No respect whatsoever for people losing their livelihoods and hospitals under pressure,” another said.
The footage was eventually picked up by Gardai, sparking an investigation into shebeen.
They eventually located the illicit watering hole, where they found a fully-stocked bar complete with beer taps, an under-bar cooler and no fewer than five kegs of beer.
Footage has emerged from the shebeen outside Athy, Co Kildare packed with people in GAA tops at the start of this month. One reveller is literally hanging from the rafters 👀
It was closed down by Gardai on Friday night #kildare #shebeen #COVID19 #level5 pic.twitter.com/5B89LWwYAA— Barry Whyte (@BarryWhyte85) October 25, 2020
Significant amounts of spirits and bottled beers were also seized along with other bar equipment.
The shebeen was decked out with all the mod cons, including a full-size pool table and a 70-inch flat screen TV.
A Garda spokesperson called on the public to share any and all information related to the operation of any establishments of this kind.
“An Garda Siochana would appeal to anyone with information about the operation of illegal shebeens to contact their local Garda station,” they said.
“The Covid-19 pandemic remains a public health crisis and An Garda Siochana continues to appeal to all citizens to comply with public health guidelines and regulations in order to continue to save lives.”
