Hundreds pay over and above street parking fees for illegally parking in Limerick City

GARDAÍ from Henry Street garda station have seen a significant rise in events policing this year, which is bringing more concerts and festivals to the city in 2026. 

There were additional gardaí on the beat between 10am and 8pm and the community engagement van also gave a higher visibility for garda presence. 

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There was also an enhanced garda team in the historical quarter, with more gardaí on patrol in Nicholas Street and surrounding areas near King John's Castle.  

While people working or shopping in the city have been safer with many crimes decreasing, many drivers have also ignored street parking fees. 

Over the past 22 days, gardaí issued 203 fixed charge notices for illegal parking. 

In the city, it costs just €0.25 to park for 15 minutes and €2 to park for two hours - failing to pay this could result in a €40 parking fine, which doubles if it remains unpaid within 28 days. 

Garda searches have gone up by 43% and drugs detected for sale or supply were up 29%. 

Thefts from a person are down 26%, while there has been a 17% reduction in assaults causing harm. 

There have also been 44% less burglaries and 18% less thefts from shops. 

Superintendent Andrew Lacey wished all city centre traders, vintners and stakeholders “a happy, safe and peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year in 2026.”