In a new effort to curb unwanted groping, flowerbeds are set to be installed around the Molly Malone statue in Dublin city centre in the coming weeks.
The move comes after repeated efforts to deter tourists and passers-by from rubbing the bronze figure’s breasts.
The statue is now visibly discoloured around the neckline, and its foundation has suffered damage from people climbing the plinth to pose for photos.
Earlier this year, Dublin City Council trialled a week-long stewarding initiative to discourage the behaviour.
Molly Malone statue in Dublin. (RollingNews.ie)
While it saw some success, officials said the approach simply wasn’t feasible long-term.
"While people did respond to requests from stewards not to touch the statue, when it was not being patrolled the groping quickly resumed," said Dublin City Council Arts Officer Ray Yeates.
"It appears the practice of rubbing the breast area of Molly Malone has now become ingrained, and having the statue patrolled daily is not a sustainable solution," he added.
Instead, the Council will introduce flowerbeds around the statue, both to create a physical barrier and to discourage climbing. The measure will be rolled out alongside summer restoration works to repair damage to the statue and secure its base.
A similar tactic was used last year around the Dublin Portal after incidents involving anti-social behaviour, including people climbing the structure and exposing themselves.
Raising the height of the statue was considered but ultimately ruled out due to cost, with estimates topping €100,000.
Molly Malone statue in Dublin. (RollingNews.ie)
"I don’t want people to touch the statue at all," said Mr. Yeates.
"Where people are touching it, it is disturbing for some people, for others it’s not, but the damage to the statue is the main reason we don’t want this to go on."
Dublin City Council says it still needs to consult several departments before final approval, but hopes to begin installation in the coming weeks.
*This article was originally published on Extra.ie.
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