Following similar restrictions for mariners off the Wicklow coast earlier this month, a maritime exclusion zone will be imposed in support of a “major security operation” at Shannon Airport, on the River Shannon and at Doonbeg from 12-14 September.
On the River Shannon, there will be an inner and outer exclusion zone. The outer zone will extend from Kilcredaun Point to Rinealon Point; all vessels proceeding upriver from Kilcredaun Point will be required to request authorisation from An Garda Síochána.
It is requested that an area extending upriver from Rinealon Point to Limerick city, including the River Fergus to Clarecastle, is restricted for the following periods: Saturday 12 September, 0001 to 1800; Sunday 13 September, 1600 to 2359; Monday 14 September, 0600 to 2359.
During these periods, only authorised shipping movements will be permitted to transit the exclusion zone. Scheduled commercial shipping to/from Shannon Foynes Port Company facilities will be provided with authorisation prior to their arrival/departure. No leisure activity will be permitted to transit the exclusion zone during these periods without the express permission of An Garda Síochána.
At Doonbeg, an inner and outer zone will also be established. The purpose of this is to enable proportionate control of the area so as not to impede scheduled commercial traffic in and out of Galway or the River Shannon.
Entry to the inner zone will be strictly prohibited during the activation period. Entry to the outer zone will be permitted for vessels not deemed to be a risk to the operation. The activation of the inner and outer zone is requested from 0001 on Saturday 12 September to 2359 on Monday 14 September.
Further details can be found in Marine Notice No 44 of 2026 attached below.
