Gardaí say an investigation is underway into the Black Lives Matter protest in Dublin city centre on Monday for breaches of COVID-19 regulations.

It was organised on social media following the death of unarmed black man George Floyd in the United States, with the numbers attending 'substantially exceeding' expectations.

Crowds marched from the GPO on O’Connell Street to the US embassy in Ballsbridge.

Gardaí say there was no advance consultation with its members but that organisers at all times pro-actively engaged with them during the event.

They also say they have no role in permitting or authorising protest marches or gatherings, as there is no permit required for such events.

The organisers had made attempts to mark social distancing guidelines on O’Connell Street - however Gardaí say social distancing is "a guideline not a regulation."

As with all other protests which have taken place during the pandemic, officers have engaged with organisers and attendees - including, where appropriate, recording names and addresses and then seeking the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Gardaí add that they are investigating this matter and the advice of the DPP will be sought in respect of any further actions.

"The COVID-19 pandemic remains a public health crisis and An Garda Síochána continues to appeal to all citizens to comply with public health guidelines and regulations, in particular essential journeys, in order to continue to save lives", the force says.

Main image: Thousands of protesters gathered outside the GPO in Dublin to protest against the death of George Floyd in the United States before marching to the US embassy. Picture by: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie