Ireland: Anti-lockdown activists to protest in Dublin March 17

Event

Activists denouncing COVID-19 restrictions plan to protest in Dublin on March 17, to coincide with Saint Patrick's day. One group of activists plans to gather in Herbert Park from 1400; a second group has organized to gather at the headquarters of RTE before marching into the city center, no start time has been confirmed. Further protests are possible in other areas of Dublin, and further cities in Ireland March 17.

Security services have prohibited all such events from taking place due to current COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings in Ireland and will deploy a significantly increased security presence throughout Dublin in an attempt to stop the gatherings. Police will likely attempt to disperse any demonstrations that do materialize and may arrest noncompliant participants. Previous related protests in Dublin and Cork escalated to clashes between protesters and police, resulting in multiple injuries. Similar clashes are possible at the actions in Dublin March 17; bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence but would face a significant threat of harm.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security forces and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions before beginning journeys. Allow extra time for travel in central Dublin March 17.