A groundbreaking art installation connecting New York to Dublin has been temporarily shut down due to inappropriate behavior. The project, known as "The Portals," featured two round, lens-like sculptures that allowed residents and visitors in the two cities to interact via a 24/7 video link.

This innovative setup was meant to foster global connections and cultural exchange.


(Photo : In Ireland on YouTube)

Inappropriate Behavior Forces New York to Dublin Portal Closure

The New York to Dublin Portal was launched on May 8, 2024. It immediately gained popularity, drawing many people who enjoyed the unique opportunity to connect with others 3,000 miles away. 

However, within a week, issues arose. Some individuals began using the platform to display inappropriate behavior, including flashing body parts.

Due to these actions, the Dublin City Council decided to temporarily shut down the portal. 

CNN reported that they are currently investigating technical solutions to prevent such behavior. Blurring the video feed was considered but found unsatisfactory. The creators of the sculptures, Portals.org, are now exploring other options to address this problem.

In New York, the portal is located at the Flatiron South Public Plaza. Measures were already in place, including 24/7 on-site security and barriers to prevent people from stepping onto the portal. 

Despite these efforts, the inappropriate actions continued, leading to the temporary shutdown.

The Dublin portal faces the city's main street, O'Connell Street. Daithí de Róiste, Dublin's Lord Mayor, emphasized the project's goal of promoting inclusivity and global connections. 

He expressed disappointment over the misuse but highlighted that most interactions were positive.

The organizers hope to resume the New York to Dublin Portal later this week. Meanwhile, they are working on implementing additional measures to ensure appropriate use. 

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This project, part of Dublin's 2024 EU Capital of Smart Tourism Designation, aims to expand to other cities worldwide, including Poland, Brazil, and Lithuania, later this year.

Lewd Acts Around the Portal

A 24/7 livestream connecting New York to Dublin has been temporarily turned off due to inappropriate behavior. Since its activation on May 8, the portal has seen users misusing it by flashing, swearing, and displaying images of the Twin Towers burning on 9/11.

Videos of these incidents have gone viral on social media. One video shows OnlyFans model Ava Louise exposing herself to the portal, saying, "I thought the people of Dublin deserved to see my two New York homegrown potatoes," according to Euronews. 

Another video shows a man displaying a video of the 9/11 attack, and a woman being dragged away by police after grinding against the screen.

The Dublin City Council is working on technical solutions to address the inappropriate behavior. The portal, part of Dublin's designation as European City of Smart Tourism 2024, aimed to connect Dublin with New York and other global destinations.

The New York to Dublin portal, located on O'Connell Street in Dublin and the Flatiron South Public Plaza in New York, will remain closed until a solution is found.

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