Gardai warn fans over intoxication, use of flares and smoke bombs ahead of Munster final in Limerick

GARDAI have warned supporters travelling to this Saturday's Munster senior hurling final between Limerick and Cork that intoxicated individuals may be denied access to TUS Gaelic Grounds.

A capacity crowd is expected at Limerick's GAA headuqarters at Ennis Road (throw in 6pm) and officers have pointed out that the possession of smoke bombs and flares in the stadium are also prohibited.

"Patrons may be denied entry if found in possession of same. The lighting of smoke bombs or flares is an offence and any person found lighting same in the stadium will be ejected from the grounds and may face criminal prosecution," gardai have stated.

READ MORE: Limerick senior hurling team announced for Munster final showdown with Cork

With 43,000 expected to pile into the stadium for the decider, a traffic management plan will also swing into action.

The gardai have advised spectators to arrive in plenty of time and are being advised to park in city centre car parks and walk out to the stadium on the northside.

"Cars illegally parked will be ticketed and those causing obstruction are likely to be towed away by gardai," officers have warned.

This includes the parking of vehicles on green areas, they've stated.

Parking is being made available at different locations along the Ennis Road between Coonagh roundabout and Caherdavin Cross, while the TUS campus at Moylish will welcome cars.

Motorists using Limerick Tunnel should consider using the main toll plaza, continue on the N18 to Exit 5 (Portdrine/Cratloe, take the N18 fly-over and take the Limerick Southern Ring Road to the Caherdavin Exit (R445) and utilise Ennis Road.

Road closures and diversions in the city will kick in from 2pm - four hours before throw-in.

Sarsfield Bridge will be closed to outbound traffic, with motorists being diverted at the junction of Henry Street and Sarsfield Street.

There will be no right turn off Condell Road into the Shelbourne Rd Lower junction. 

Vehicles will be banned onto Clancy Strand off of High Road in Thomondgate, while residential traffic will only be permitted in a number of streets across estates on the northside.

No traffic will be permitted onto Shelbourne Road at Hassett's Cross, with vehicles diverted to Cratloe Road and Secton Street North.

At Ennis Road's junction with Ivan's Cross, traffic will be diverted to Northern Ring Road and towards Clonmacken Road.

Council has advised supporters to use the additional bins it will provide to help keep the city clean.

It's asked fans to be respectful to fellow supporters, local residents and property.

"Stay sun-smart, but bring a rain jacket," the local authority said.

This comes with rain forecast all day in the city, but the sun scheduled to break through the clouds around an hour before throw-in.

Mayor John Moran said: "We’re delighted to welcome supporters from near and far to Limerick for what promises to be a spectacular occasion. Let’s show the best of Limerick hospitality and spirit as we cheer on this impressive Limerick team, hopefully to an historic seven Munster titles in a row."

Priomh Comhairleoir, Cllr Dan McSweeney added: "The Munster final is a highlight of the sporting calendar, and we’re proud to host it here in the heart of Limerick. I look forward to welcoming many visitors who will come to enjoy our wonderful city. A special thanks to Limerick and Munster GAA for bringing this iconic sporting and cultural event once again to the TUS Gaelic Grounds.”

Council director general Dr Pat Daly said: "Let’s make this Munster final not only a showcase of hurling excellence but also a celebration of community spirit and sportsmanship. We’re proud to support this event and look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to our city.”