A recent poll conducted by Amárach Research for the Irish Daily Mail has unveiled a growing reluctance among Dubliners to visit the city centre due to rising safety concerns. Shockingly, over half of surveyed Dublin residents, 56%, and 40% nationally, admit to either significantly reducing their visits or avoiding the city altogether, citing worries about safety and crime.
The survey of one thousand participants highlighted that a staggering 82% of those hesitant to venture into Dublin have ceased shopping in the city, with 62% forgoing dining out. Concerns over safety were echoed in respondents’ desires for increased Garda (police) presence, with 55% expressing a willingness to return if security measures were heightened.
Furthermore, the research indicated a pervasive sentiment, with 60% agreeing that it would take a substantial amount of time before they would feel secure in the capital again. Despite these concerns, the poll revealed a resilient sense of pride, as 50% of Dubliners still proudly consider Dublin as Ireland’s capital.