The Molly Malone statue in Dublin will be supervised during the month of May, in a bid to prevent tourists from groping the landmark.
A protective layer will also be introduced over the statue and specifically Molly's breasts, after concerns of years of inappropriate touching.
Council chiefs say it follows expressions of ‘upset and disquiet’ from members of the public including proud Dubliner and singer Imelda May.
The Suffolk Street landmark has seen a shiny sheen develop from people rubbing its chest for good luck.
Tourist companies who claim visitors would get good luck if they rub the statue have since been told to stop spreading the rumour.
In a statement, Dublin City Council described the "touching of statues" as a "worldwide phenomenon".
It says it is "addressing this issue through education of tour guides and a review of the statue’s positioning.
"There may also be a need for stewarding at certain times to directly stop people touching the statue."
Repair works will also be carried out to re-cover the bronze on the statue's chest.
