New Year’s Eve in Ireland: Massive Road Closures and Traffic Restrictions Announced

Dublin: Gardaí and the National Transport Authority (NTA) have implemented extensive traffic management plans across Ireland today to facilitate New Year’s celebrations. The focus is primarily on Dublin City Centre, where the New Year’s Festival is expected to draw thousands for concerts and fireworks.

Key Traffic & Transport Details:

• Road Closures (Dublin): Dame Street and Castle Street are closed to all private vehicles until the early hours of January 1st. Extensive diversions are in place around Dublin Castle, College Green, and St. Stephen’s Green.
• Fireworks Restrictions: In Dún Laoghaire and Howth, coastal roads and pier access (Upper and Lower East Piers) are restricted to accommodate firework displays.  
• Public Transport Changes: * Dublin Bus: Operating on a Saturday schedule with significant diversions on routes passing through the city center (Routes 13, 27, 40, etc.).
  • Nitelink & 24-Hour Services: A full Nitelink service is running tonight to get partygoers home safely.  
  • Irish Rail: Special late-night DART and Commuter trains will depart from Pearse and Connolly stations between 1:30 AM and 3:00 AM.  
• Garda Enforcement: A nationwide road safety campaign is active, with over 2,000 checkpoints targeting drink and drug driving, speeding, and mobile phone use.

Motorists are strongly advised to leave their cars at home and use the TFI Live App for real-time updates.