Canada updates Ireland travel advice over Dublin security measures from Nov. 10 to 13

OTTAWA — The Canadian government has issued an important update to its travel advice for Ireland, urging Canadians to be alert and prepare for traffic disruptions and exceptional security measures in the capital, Dublin, from Nov. 10 to 13, 2026.

The warning coincides with Ireland hosting high-level European political meetings attended by about 50 heads of state and government, which requires a large security deployment and the closure of a number of streets and key areas.

According to a report by Daily Hive, the Canadian government added this information to its official travel advice on Friday, Nov. 6.

Despite the nature of the warning, Ottawa confirmed that Ireland remains at the first level of its travel advice, which means taking normal security precautions, with no recommendation to cancel trips or avoid travel.

Why Canada issued the warning

Dublin is hosting the European Political Community meeting on Thursday, Nov. 12, followed by an informal meeting of European Union leaders on Friday, Nov. 13.

Official delegations and prominent political figures are expected to attend, which has led Irish authorities to carry out one of the largest security operations in the country's history.

Irish police said the measures began on Tuesday, Nov. 10, and will continue in phases throughout the meetings, with the aim of protecting participants, residents and visitors.

The Canadian government urged travellers to follow local news, comply with instructions from authorities and adjust travel plans when necessary.

Major streets and bridges closed in Dublin

The measures include a security cordon around the Convention Centre Dublin, with barriers and parking bans on a number of surrounding streets.

Police announced the closure of part of North Wall Quay, between Guild Street and New Wapping Street, to vehicles and pedestrians from the morning of Nov. 10 until the evening of Nov. 13.

Additional restrictions will also apply around the National Gallery of Ireland and the hotels hosting official delegations.

The Samuel Beckett Bridge is scheduled to close to traffic from the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 11, with vehicles directed to alternative routes.

Residents and business owners may be allowed access to some restricted areas after passing security checks.

Public transit disruptions expected

Ireland's transport authority warned of major disruptions to many bus routes in central Dublin, as well as effects on some Luas tram services on the Red Line.

The changes affect areas around the Convention Centre and the Docklands, where heavy traffic congestion is expected, particularly when official delegations arrive and leave.

Authorities also urged travellers heading to Dublin Airport to allow extra time, in case of delays caused by security movements and road restrictions.

They added that transport services may be subject to further changes, so travellers should check official schedules before leaving their hotels or heading to the airport.

Has Ireland become unsafe for tourists?

Despite the new warning, Canada has not changed its overall assessment of the level of safety in Ireland.

The government continues to advise travellers to take normal precautions, which is the lowest-risk level in the Canadian travel advice system.

However, the advice also draws attention to pickpocketing and bag theft, particularly at tourist sites, transit stations and airports.

Tourists are advised to keep their documents in a safe place, avoid carrying large amounts of cash and not leave valuables inside vehicles.

Advice for Canadians before travelling

Authorities advise checking hotel bookings and travel times in advance, and making sure tourist destinations will be accessible during the meetings.

Travellers should also follow updates from police and transport services, and keep suitable travel insurance and emergency contact numbers.

Irish emergency services can be reached at 112 or 999 when needed.