2 weeks Ago By Faye Dorgan
GARDAÍ have issued the timetable for road closures and traffic measures around Limerick this St Patrick’s Day and for the International Band Championships. There are widespread road closures this Monday, March 17, from Punches Cross to Athlunkard St in the city. For the International Band Championships which will commence at the junction of Barrington Street and Quinlan Street at 12pm on Sunday, March 16.
“The traffic preparations begin at 4am on both mornings when all vehicles must be removed from the parade route,” said Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, crime prevention officer at Henry St garda station. READ ALSO: Shannon Airport boost expected, as almost 38,000 to take to skies over St Patrick’s Day period The parade route on St Patrick’s Day is O’Connell Avenue, The Crescent, O’Connell Street, Glentworth Street, Henry Street, Liddy Street, Arthurs Quay, Francis Street and Bridge Street. For the band parade, the route is Barrington Street, Hartstonge Street Upper, The Cresent, Mallow Street, O’Connell Street, Glentworth Street, Henry Street, Liddy Street, Arthurs Quay and Francis Street.
Limerick City and County Council have issued a full list of closures and times for St Patrick’s Day, with gardaí prewarning motorists of diversions. Shannon Bridge and Thomond Bridge will remain open at all times but Sarsfield Bridge will be closed to both inbound and outbound traffic from 11am to 4pm on both St Patrick’s Day and on Sunday, March 16. “On both Sunday and Monday if you need to be somewhere other than the parades make sure you plan your route and give yourself extra time as there will be diversions and delay due to road closures,” Sgt O’Halloran added.
There will be disruption to local and national bus service routes for the duration of both parades on Sunday and Monday and we are advising customers to contact relevant bus operators for information. Road closures for both parades can be found on www.limerick.
ie In terms of crime prevention advice, Sgt O’Halloran warned that “criminals and pickpockets will want cash, bankcards and phones”. “I recommend ladies consider wearing a cross body bag and advising men not to carry your wallet or phone in the back pocket of your trousers, put it in the inside pocket of your jacket or in your front pocket,” she said. “Large crowds are expected so please keep your children close and if possible make sure they know their parents' mobile number, you can write it down and put it in their pocket.
“Leave the car at home if you can but if not park it legally, do not block any entrances. Remember, illegally parked cars may have consequences for emergency vehicle access or cause damage to the local amenity.” Gardaí are also reminding people that parking is not permitted on any green areas in the city, with offending drivers liable to have their cars ticketed or towed.
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