Gardaí are joining a major operation to encourage people into Dublin city centre across the Christmas season.
'Operation Open City' is running until Christmas Eve, December 24th and will see daily, high-visibility patrols conducted by An Garda Síochána.
The force has said the aim of the operation is to "facilitate the movement of public transport and minimise traffic disruption to the general public, through high visibility and enforcement activity in Dublin city".
Transport and traffic focus
It is a multi-agency approach between Gardaí, the National Transport Authority (NTA), local authorities and transport providers.
Additional Public transport services are being operated throughout the Christmas period.
Hours are being extended by Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Irish Rail and Luas with details on the Transport for Ireland website.
Gardaí will be patrolling major arterial routes and link roads during peak periods of traffic movement.
There will also be particular focus on traffic management around car parks at major shopping areas to avoid traffic congestion.
'Operation Open City' runs alongside the Christmas and New Year Enforcement Operation which will target lifesaver and intoxicated driving offences over the festive period.
Gardaí have also issued safety advice for Christmas shoppers:
- Be careful when withdrawing money from cash machines and financial institutions
- Mind your belongings when in crowded areas. Use a handbag or shoulder bag that can be held securely
- Don’t leave bags or valuables visible inside parked cars
- Park your car in a controlled car park and retain the parking ticket on your person
- Always lock your car securely when leaving it unattended, even for brief period
People are also reminded to report any incident immediately to the Gardaí.
It comes ahead of a no confidence motion in Justice Minister Helen McEntee following the Dublin riots last month.
Sinn Féin has accused Minister McEntee of "not listening"and that people no longer feel safe in the capital.
