Dublin road closures begin ahead of EU political summits this week

Major traffic restrictions began in Dublin on Tuesday ahead of two major European political summits this week. The disruptions are part of one of the largest security operations in Ireland’s history as the country hosts dozens of European leaders under its EU Council presidency.

The European Political Community summit takes place on Thursday, followed by an informal meeting of EU leaders on Friday. Both events are held at the Convention Centre, with a formal dinner scheduled at the National Gallery on Thursday evening.

“the security stakes are much higher in this period of time than they have been for a long time in Europe”

North Wall Quay closed to all traffic, including pedestrians, between Guild Street and New Wapping Street from 7am on Tuesday. The closure is expected to remain in place until Friday evening, with numerous diversions set up around the area.

A cordon with barriers is already in place around the Convention Centre, blocking pedestrians and enforcing no-parking restrictions. Additional restrictions around the National Gallery will begin tomorrow, including the closure of the Samuel Beckett Bridge from 8pm.

Road closures between Dublin Airport and the city centre will also start tomorrow to allow delegates to arrive and depart, lasting until Friday. Bus routes are expected to be heavily affected by diversions and knock-on traffic disruption.

Real-time bus information will not appear on Dublin Bus display boards during the meetings but will remain available online and through apps. Commuters are being advised to plan journeys carefully and consider whether travel into the city on Thursday and Friday is necessary.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin warned that security stakes are much higher than they have been for a long time in Europe. The meetings follow a series of bomb threats against airlines and media organisations in recent days.