Cork city traders hail 'transformative' high-visibility garda plan  

New high-visibility policing measures in Cork city have been transformative, a restaurateur has said, as traders reveal the heightened garda presence has increased footfall ahead of Christmas.

At the end of November, 48 gardaí newly allocated to Cork began patrolling 11 high-visibility posts/beats across the city, operating between 8am and 4am across two shifts.

A total of 23 gardaí are assigned to the operation daily, 11 during daytime hours and 12 during the night.

According to the Cork Business Association and local retailers, the enhanced policing measures are already making a real and meaningful difference.

Phenomenal

Mike Ryan, of Cornstore restaurant, said: “Over the past week, it has been phenomenal to see how quickly the overall vibe in the city centre has changed… it’s been transformative, literally overnight, with the visible presence of An Garda Síochána.

“Seeing members of the public chatting to a garda or a city centre warden, tourists asking for directions, or people simply acknowledging them as they pass creates a lovely sense of community. 

"Before this welcome change, there was often an apprehensive feeling when you saw An Garda Síochána as it generally meant something serious had happened or someone was in distress. The optic has completely done a 180.”

Patrick Leader, of Leaders Mens-wear, said: “We’re already seeing a positive change on the street landscape.

“Our customers feel safer, and that makes a huge difference to footfall and the overall shopping experience.

“It’s fantastic to see gardaí engaging with businesses and the public. It brings a real sense of calm and camaraderie to the city centre.

“Well done to everyone who helped make this happen.”

Sheena McCarthy, of Sheena’s Boutique, said: “The increased garda presence has brought real reassurance to both staff and shoppers. You can see it in the footfall, the energy, and the confidence on the street.”

The initiative arrives as the city gears up for a busy season of events and festive shopping, and businesses say that, with safety concerns eased, people are more inclined to linger.

Praised 

Kate Neville, chairwoman of the Cork Business Association safe & clean committee, also praised the initiative.

She said: “Cork is a city built on community, commerce, and culture, and the safety of our streets is central to all three.

“The increased garda presence has made a noticeable difference. People feel more comfortable coming into town, spending time here, and enjoying everything the city has to offer.

“This, combined with our recently-launched city centre wardens, is exactly the type of visible reassurance our members and customers have been asking for, and we’re delighted to see everything making an impact.”

Ms Neville said sustaining this is essential.

She added: “Cork thrives when people feel safe and welcomed. This level of garda visibility shows a real commitment to supporting our city, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with local authorities and An Garda Síochána to keep Cork moving in the right direction.”