GARDAÍ HAVE announced road closures and traffic controls as part of the security operation for the visit of Queen Elizabeth to Cork and Tipperary next week.
While the trip to both counties does not take place until next Friday, some of the security-related traffic controls are being put in place from Monday.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny said he hoped members of the public would not be inconvenienced by the traffic and parking restrictions planned for the visits of the Queen and US president Barack Obama.
However, the Garda had a responsibility to put in place an adequate security operation for the heads of state. He said all of the restrictions were being publicised well in advance of the visits.
“I hope people will understand that this is necessary, but also on the understanding that this is a brilliant opportunity to present Ireland as the kind of people we are,” he said.
In Co Tipperary, where the Queen will visit the Rock of Cashel, traffic restrictions on the M8 are being scheduled from next Monday until the following Friday.
Only those with valid passes, such as local residents and business owners, will be allowed through the 7km-long outer ring around the town. There will be no access via a shorter inner cordon.
On Friday afternoon the Queen moves on to Cork, where significant traffic controls will be set in place.