Ed Sheeran at the Páirc one of the most expensive policing events of 2018

THE three Ed Sheeran concerts in Páirc Uí Chaoimh were among the top ten most expensive policing events last year.

According to figures released by An Garda Siochana, under the Freedom of Information Act, the three concerts cost €90,000 to police. 

The figure was charged to Aiken Promotions by the State.

The events were the sixth most expensive to be policed last year, with the most expensive being the National Ploughing Championships in Tullamore last September. 

The organisers paid €347,608 for policing.

Next highest was the Electric Picnic event in Stradbally, followed by Ed Sheeran's concerts in the Phoenix Park in Dublin. Those concerts cost Aiken Promotions €250,000.

The Ed Sheeran concerts in Cork were a huge attraction, with up to 130,000 heading to Páirc Uí Chaoimh to see him live.

The concerts were the biggest in the city since Bruce Springsteen played the Páirc in 2013.

Just over €28,000 was paid by Aiken for policing the 2016 Live at the Marquee concerts, and a further €27,185 for 2017 series.

According to An Garda Siochana: “Under Section 30 of An Garda Síochána Act 2005, An Garda Síochána may provide and charge for police services for events on private property or in areas open to the public if (a) it is in the public interest and consistent with the functions of An Garda Síochána to provide the services, and (b) the Commissioner is satisfied that the person has paid or will pay to the Commissioner the charges for the services.” 

Events include football matches, agricultural shows, concerts and race meetings. Off-duty gardaí carry out the duties.