Cork commuters advised to expect city traffic restrictions as EU Presidency meetings continue

Cork city commuters can expect to face congestion around City Hall this morning, with an increased garda presence being deployed to facilitate a second day of EU Presidency meetings. Picture: Chani Anderson

Cork city commuters can expect to face congestion around City Hall this morning, with an increased garda presence being deployed to facilitate a second day of EU Presidency meetings.

Meetings will be held at Cork City Hall this morning, with additional traffic and security restrictions expected outside City Hall between 7:30am and 8:30am.

Gardaí say it will provide real-time traffic updates "where appropriate".

In light of the informal meetings, drone detection systems will be deployed at venues hosting the presidency meetings.

An Garda Síochána said any breaches of restricted airspace will be subject to investigation.

The meeting will involve EU fisheries ministers and will be chaired by marine minister Martin Heydon. 

European fisheries ministers, representatives of the European Commission and other industry stakeholders are also expected to feature.

Discussions will focus on the EU's Common Fisheries Policy, which has drawn criticism from some Irish fishermen over what they regard as restrictive fishing quotas.

The talks will also consider how the European Union can sustainably develop its fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

Ireland assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on July 1. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Cork on July 2, and Ireland's presidency will continue until the end of 2026.