Molly Malone Statue to Receive Protection as Dublin City Council Responds to Damage

Dublin City Council has announced plans to station stewards near the beloved Molly Malone statue to minimize damage caused by tourist interactions, particularly excessive touching that has discolored the statue over the years.

Dublin's well-known Molly Malone statue is set to receive protective measures in May as the Dublin City Council has announced that stewards will be positioned alongside the iconic figure to help educate and guard against tourist mishandling. The statue, immortalized in the famous folk song celebrating Irish culture, has experienced persistent damage due to visitors frequently touching and rubbing its surface, especially the bust, in the hope of gaining luck.

Originally erected to honor the titular character of the song “Molly Malone” or “Cockles and Mussels,” the statue has become a vital symbol representing working-class Dublin. The council's decision comes after numerous complaints regarding this inappropriate behavior, prompting the need for immediate action.

The designated stewards will be on hand for a week in May to not only secure the statue but also to spread awareness about its cultural significance. Additionally, plans for repairs to the statue's damage, which have been recurrent due to the wear and tear from tourist interactions, will be undertaken by the council.

This initiative is partly inspired by the “Leave Molly mAlone” campaign led by Tilly Cripwell, a Trinity College Dublin student and local busker. The campaign emphasizes the need to respect and preserve the statue's integrity, ensuring that it remains a cherished part of Dublin's heritage for generations to come.