An Garda Síochána has announced the launch of their new policing plan, the High Visibility Policing Plan, which commenced activity Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
In accordance with the plan, eight High Visibility Patrols (HPV) have been identified in the city centre, where 15 Gardaí will be deployed each day.
The news comes following the allocation of 12 Probationer Gardaí to the Limerick Division. In the press release issued by the Gardaí announcing the news, it was revealed that other “consequential transfers and allocations” in the plan will also begin today.
Aiming to reduce crime in key areas of the city, the Gardaí sought to identify HVP areas by consulting with members of the local community, in addition to surveying crime trends and their own records.
The HVPS will be under supervision by Gardaí between 8am-4am each day, with seven on daytime and eight on evening patrols. Patrols will be conducted by Gardaí from both Henry Street and Roxboro Road Garda Stations.
In the official statement from An Garda Síochána, it was stated: “The HVPs have been identified following an analysis of calls for service, crime trends and feedback from the community and businesses in the city.”
The Gardaí reaffirmed that they are intent on keeping the city a vibrant and safe place, adding that “The HVP presence in Limerick City Centre will increase focus on and a robust approach to policing public order offences, anti-social behavior, drug dealing, aggressive begging and shoplifting, with a pro arrest policy for recidivist offenders including strong bail objections where appropriate.”
Eileen Foster, Assistant Commissioner of the Southern Region, has said that she is “delighted” with the news.
“The 12 additional probationer Gardaí allocated from the Garda College, working alongside other colleagues, will bring a high visibility and energetic Garda presence to Limerick City Centre and offer public reassurance that public realms and amenities in Limerick City Centre are and continue to be safe places to live, visit, socialise, conduct business and enjoy,” she continued.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Derek Smart, Chief Superintendent of the Limerick Garda Division, who believes that the new plan will build on previous developments within crime prevention in Limerick.
“I look forward to seeing the implementation of these High Visibility patrols and to work with our key stakeholders in the City to develop and support this policing plan,” he said.
The plan is set to be supported by other Gardaí resources including Frontline Policing Units, Roads Policing Unit, Detective and plain-clothes Gardaí.
It will not replace existing measures, and Community Policing Gardaí/ Units will also remain in place. They will continue to support public engagement and offer crime prevention advice to members of the public, residents, and the business community.