Dublin battens down the hatches
16 May 2011
The north, south and east sides of Parnell square are completely closed to traffic. Pedestrians are allowed in only if they work or live there. The west side is still open to both traffic and pedestrians, presumably because of the entrance to the Rotunda Hospital. The photo shows the police barrier at the south east corner of Parnell Square.
Had I still been going to school here; indeed, had the school still been here; I would clearly have had a day off. Coláiste Mhuire and the Municipal Gallery are firmly locked down. There are a few ironies in the visit to the Garden of Remembrance and the security that goes with it. The west side of Parnell Square houses the Sinn Féin HQ, which actually looks like it has been tarted up for the visit.
The 1916 Rising was planned in the building that used to house Coláiste Mhuire. Lord Charlemont lived next door.
I initially thought the cherrypickers carried lights.
But on closer inspection they house wireless spy cameras.
When passing TCD I noted that the main entrance had been closed for security reasons from last Saturday until 5.30pm tomorrow. Checked the itinerary when I got home. It appears EIIR will be viewing the Book of Kells in the College to which her predecessor EIR gave its charter.
The area around Government Buildings is still open, but not for long from the look of this Bulk Barrier Carrier