National: Dublin City Council and Dublin Marathon make statement on start/finish line of Marathon

DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL and Dublin Marathon have issued a statement following controversy over the start/finish line which is situated on Merrion Square North. 

In a joint statement Dublin City Council and Marathon stated: "Dublin City Council and the organisers of the Dublin Marathon have for many years worked in partnership together to deliver this important event to the city, in a safe and sustainable manner.

The event, and the associated required infrastructure, have grown incrementally over time as have the number of runners applying to take part in the event each year. Concerns expressed by the National Transport Authority in recent years relating to the duration of road closures required to set up and maintain the start/finish area on Merrion Square North and its negative effect on public transport in the area have led to a requirement to reconsider the use of Merrion Square North for future Dublin Marathons.

As with all events that take place in the public realm, Dublin City Council and the event organisers attempt to ensure that the best locations are used, that present the best experience both for participants, attendees and spectators, while ensuring that disruption to the day to day running of the city is minimised where possible. 

With this in mind, Dublin City Council and the organisers of Dublin Marathon are working together to consider viable options for next year’s event, preferably within the city-centre, that will showcase the city and continue to provide the best experience for all those involved with the Dublin Marathon.

Discussions relating to proposed arrangements for future Dublin Marathon events have commenced between Dublin City Council and the organisers of Dublin Marathon with the intention of reaching a positive solution that may be announced in Quarter 1 of 2024."