Flower Beds Are Going Up Around Molly Malone Statue to Stop Groping
Image Credit: Rollingnews.ie
Flower Beds Are Going Up Around Molly Malone Statue to Stop Groping
Text: Izzy Copestake
A council spokesperson said further protective measures would be considered if the new setup fails to stop the ongoing damage.
Dublin City Council is set to install flower-bed barriers around the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street in an effort to prevent tourists from rubbing the statue’s breasts. The bronze sculpture has suffered visible wear to the chest area due to a relatively recent tourist trend that claims the gesture brings good luck. Council officials say the practice has discoloured the statue’s surface and loosened the plinth fixtures from repeated climbing and handling.
The statue will be temporarily covered in the coming weeks while restoration work is carried out. The flower beds will then be installed to act as a low-level barrier, making it harder for visitors to approach and touch the figure. The works are expected to cost approximately €20,000. This news comes after the council deployed stewards to prevent tourists from touching the statue inappropriately.
A council spokesperson said further protective measures would be considered if the new setup fails to stop the ongoing damage.
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