Man alleged to have coughed and sneezed at Gardai

Two men appeared before Longford District Court today after an incident in Athlone last night during which it was alleged an individual sneezed and coughed at a local Garda.

The incident happened at a house in Monksland at around 11.15pm after Gardai were called to the scene of what appeared to be a small party.

Gardai learned that a number of people present were not resident at the property and proceeded to explain the requirements for social distancing to those present.

At this point, one man is alleged to have sneezed and coughed in the direction of the Garda, whilst mentioning the coronavirus.

Today, two men appeared at Longford District Court on charges related to the incident.

One of the men was charged with a minor assault, whilst the other was before the court on a breach of the peace charge.

The DPP can consider further charges relating to the incident.

Both men were remanded in custody for a week by Judge Seamus Hughes.