Garda ‘Open City’ operation to tackle Dublin traffic congestion for Christmas

Gardai commenced Operation ‘Open City’ around Dublin last Friday in a bid to “facilitate the movement of public transport and minimise traffic disruption to the general public.”

It will continue until 7pm on Christmas Eve and involves a multi-agency approach between An Garda Síochána, the National Transport Authority, local authorities and transport providers.

During Operation Open City, Gardai will conduct a high-visibility enforcement operation while 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.

Car parks are open throughout the city, however visitors to Dublin are reminded that the use of public transport is encouraged.

For information on public transport services visit the Transport for Ireland website.

Suburban retail parks and shopping centres situated on the outskirts of Dublin city are open for business and also have car parking facilities available.

Operation Open City runs alongside the Christmas and New Year Enforcement Operation which will target lifesaver offences and intoxicated driving offences over the festive period.

Both operations are focused on preventing fatal and serious injury collisions on our roads, as well as the prevention and detection of crime and public order incidents.

Enhanced communication will be provided to the public by An Garda Síochána and relevant stakeholders through social media.

Follow An Garda Síochána, Transport for Ireland and Dublin City Council social media accounts for regular updates.

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.
• Report any incident to Gardaí, immediately.

Visit Garda.ie for crime prevention advice.

Public transport providers will be operating additional services throughout the Christmas period.

Operating hours are being extended by Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Irish Rail and Luas.

Details of the extended service arrangements can be found on the Transport for Ireland website.