Security has been increased at the Dáil for today's Budget announcement following last month’s protests during which Oireachtas members were jostled and harrassed.
More than 200 gardaí have been deployed in and around Leinster House, primarily unarmed frontline uniformed gardaí.
They are supported by plain clothes personnel, resources from the Garda National Public Order Unit (including Peaceful Crowd Management resources), Roads Policing Units and specialist services, such as the Garda Dog Unit.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris arrived at the Dáil this morning and spoke to some of those on duty.
Kildare Street, Molesworth Street and Merrion Square will remain closed until 2am tomorrow and gardaí said additional road closures may be implemented if required.
They said that while there is a constitutional right to the freedom of assembly and freedom of speech, it must be reasonable and proportionate, and limited in its extent and duration.
It also said their response to public gatherings today is based on a graduated policing response taking into account relevant legislation and public safety.
Read more
Threat level against politicians has risen, says Taoiseach
Traffic disruption
There has been significant disruption to traffic and public transport in the Dublin city centre due to the security operation for Budget day.
Bus services have been diverted and streets closed as gardaí secure the area around Leinster House.
Kildare Street, Molesworth Street, Merrion Street Upper and Merrion Square West and South were closed to traffic last night as gardaí created a "sterile zone" and Dublin Bus has diverted a number of routes until midnight.
The routes affected are: 11, 15A, 15B, 26, 37, 38A, 39A, 40, 44,46A, 61, 70, 84X, 145 and 155.
Some Dublin Bus users have complained that the online live timetables have not been operating.
Additional reporting: Colman O'Sullivan
