A campaign aimed at managing traffic during the Christmas period has begun in Dublin city centre. The scheme, named Operation Open City, is a joint operation between An Garda Síochána, the National Transport Authority and local authorities and retailers .
The scheme aims to minimise disruption to consumers and commuters during this period through a focus on public transport and traffic enforcement activity.
Minister for Transport Paschal Donohoe said: "The number of people coming into the city centre in the run up to Christmas often means that congestion is at its worst.
“In a bid to deal with increased traffic volumes on our roads, An Garda Síochána will work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that traffic flows freely and that people can go about their business with minimal disruption.”
The Minister also encouraged consumers to consider using public transport when coming into the city centre to help avoid congestion.
The period is traditionally one of the busiest times of year for the city, with the weeks leading up to Christmas estimated as counting for a third of annual turnover for some retailers. There has already been an increased footfall of 20% on Dublin’s streets this past week.
The traffic management campaign will remain in place until Christmas Eve.
Full details can be found on the Transport for Ireland website.