Chaos struck Dublin as six people were arrested following a violent protest outside the Citywest Hotel, a venue currently housing asylum seekers. The disturbances saw missiles, fireworks, and even horse-drawn sulkies hurled at Gardai (Irish police). A Garda van was set ablaze and lasers targeted the Garda helicopter, escalating the situation further.
This unruly scene led Irish Premier Micheal Martin to condemn the actions, describing them as unjustifiable. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly labelled the event as “mob thuggery”, emphasising the threat it posed not only to officers but the community’s safety too.
Police donned full protective gear and used pepper spray to counter sustained attacks. The protest included a mix of peaceful demonstrators, but the violent faction overshadowed proceedings. The Garda response was substantial, involving nearly 300 officers, including mounted units, dog units, and air support.
The protest followed claims of an alleged sexual assault nearby, which had sparked gatherings the previous day without significant incidents. Although the protest began with a mix of intentions, it swiftly devolved into chaos, rendering the actions of a few individuals a danger to many.
The event sparked a suspension of Luas tram services, with damage reported to the Saggart stop. Efforts to maintain order saw the public order unit pushing protesters back late into the night.
Ireland’s Justice Minister, Jim O’Callaghan, promised a forceful response, asserting that attackers would be brought to justice. The minister highlighted that such violence is unacceptable and misrepresents the community.
As investigations continue, Garda Commissioner Kelly reassured the public of efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible, emphasising that the violence witnessed was neither protest nor representative of the people of Saggart.
This incident serves as a reminder that while peaceful protest is cherished, violence and chaos have no place in our streets. Let’s hope for justice and calm to prevail.