Dublin City Council Takes Action to Improve Portal Experience After Viral Moments

The recent launch of the Portals connecting Dublin and New York City has been a fascinating journey of global connection and cultural exchange. These innovative live stream sculptures, launched on May 8, were designed to bridge the gap between two cities and foster positive interactions in real-time.

While the majority of interactions have been heartwarming, with friends reuniting across continents and dance groups showcasing their talents together, there have been a few unexpected challenges. Some instances of inappropriate behavior, such as displaying sensitive images or gestures, have marred the otherwise uplifting experience for participants.

The New York / Ireland portal bouta start a war😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/0QTCmFVGvJ

— SolP (@SolProduced) May 11, 2024

In response to these challenges, Dublin City Council is taking proactive steps to enhance the Portal experience for everyone involved. A spokesperson for the council shared, "The overwhelming majority of interactions are positive. We have seen families and friends unite, dancing moves being shared as well as new friendships being made. The Portal offers a window to other cities and is connecting people and cultures in a unique manner."

Acknowledging the small minority of negative interactions, the council is implementing technical solutions to address these issues swiftly. These updates will be live within the next 24 hours, ensuring a more enjoyable and respectful environment for users on both sides of the Portal.

The Portals project has received widespread attention globally, with millions of positive impressions on social media and coverage by reputable news outlets. Despite the challenges, the Portals continue to serve as a symbol of unity and connectivity between Dublin and New York City.

The Portals Organization, responsible for the project, emphasizes the importance of respectful interaction. They state, "Our goal is to open a window between faraway places and cultures that allows people to interact freely with one another. We encourage people to be respectful, and from our position as observers, we see that the absolute majority of experiences are on the bright side."

As the Portals project evolves, with plans for expansion to more locations, the focus remains on fostering meaningful connections and celebrating diversity. The council encourages the public to enjoy the Portals, interact positively, and embrace the opportunity to connect with individuals from different backgrounds and cultures.