The statue of Molly Malone, the beloved figure of Irish folklore and song, is set to receive enhanced protection in Dublin following increasing complaints about excessive touching from tourists. This life-sized bronze statue, located on Suffolk Street, symbolizes working-class Dublin and has become an iconic image during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

To combat the growing trend of visitors touching Molly Malone’s bosom—an act believed to bring good luck—the Dublin City Council announced that wardens will be stationed near the statue starting next month. This initiative is a direct response to the damage inflicted on the statue from frequent touching, especially to its bust, which has discolored over time. In addition to installing stewards, the council plans to refurbish the statue, a task it periodically undertakes due to this issue.

The protective measures were partly propelled by a student-led campaign named "Leave Molly mAlone," spearheaded by Tilly Cripwell, a final-year student at Trinity College Dublin and a regular performer in the area. The stewards will not only monitor the statue but will also inform tourists about its cultural significance, ensuring that Molly Malone's rich history is respected and preserved for future generations.