Dublin's Molly Malone Statue To Get Protection To Stop Tourists 'Groping' Her
The Molly Malone statue in the centre of Dublin will be supervised in May to prevent tourists from touching the artwork.
A protective layer will also be introduced over the statue’s breasts, after concerns were raised over inappropriate touching.
Dublin City Council say it follows ‘upset and disquiet’ from members of the public including singer Imelda May.
The statue on Suffolk Street has become shiny from people rubbing its chest for good luck.
Tourist companies have created an attraction by claiming visitors would get good luck if they rub the statue.
They have since been told to stop spreading the rumour.
In a statement, Dublin City Council described the "touching of statues" as a "worldwide phenomenon".
It says it is "addressing this issue through education of tour guides and a review of the statue’s positioning.
"There may also be a need for stewarding at certain times to directly stop people touching the statue."
Repair works will also be carried out on the statue to re-cover the bronze on the statue's chest.
