Police and council officials have handed out 11,600 fines to people for refusing to wear a face mask on public transport since the requirement was introduced last June, broadcaster NOS reported at the weekend.

In addition, public transport workers have reported a further 5,600 incidents in which they were sworn or spat at since the masks were introduced.

Failing to wear a mask carries a fine of €95. Although most of the coronavirus measures have been halted or will go this weekend, masks will remain compulsory on trams, buses and trains.