The area around Leinster House has been closed off as part of the Garda security operation for Budget 2024.
Five roads around Government Buildings were closed off last night with around 200 Gardaí to be deployed to the area.
There are also dozens of public order Gardaí on standby alongside Roads Policing Units and the Garda Dog Unit.
A Garda barrier near Leinster House ahead of the Budget 2024 announcement, 10-10-2023. Image: Sam Boal/RollingNewsThe security operation has been put in place to avoid a repeat of last month’s protests which saw politicians and staff harassed by demonstrators.
Some politicians had called for a far larger area to be closed off after last month’s disruption.
Gardaí have been monitoring social media for information about any gatherings and it is understood there is currently little evidence of any far-right events getting significant traction.
In a statement, Gardaí said Budget Day traditionally involves public gatherings around Government Buildings – and noted that people in Ireland have a Constitutional right to freedom of assembly and freedom of speech.
They said those freedoms extend to “some levels of disruption/obstruction of footpaths, streets and roads and expressing opinions that not every person agrees with or accepts, provided it is reasonable and proportionate and limited in its extent and duration”.
As a result, Gardaí will take a “graduated policing response” to any demonstrations.
A Garda barrier near Leinster House ahead of the Budget 2024 announcement, 10-10-2023. Image: Sam Boal/RollingNewsThe five roads that are closed throughout the day are:
- Kildare Street
- Molesworth Street
- Merrion Street Upper
- Merrion Square West
- Merrion Square South
Meanwhile, extra rolling road closures to and from Kildare Street and Merrion Square may be implemented if they are needed for operational reasons.
Pedestrians can enter the Garda cordon at specific entry points; however, they may need ID.
