In Dublin city, a series of violent incidents unfolded, resulting in several injuries amidst clashes involving far-right activists protesting against illegal immigrants. The catalyst for these events occurred when an individual, identified as an illegal migrant, assaulted schoolchildren with a knife near Parnell Square around 2 p.m. yesterday.
Subsequently, protests against illegal immigrants gained momentum, and far-right activists confronted the government with strong opposition. The demonstrations escalated into widespread unrest, with protesters targeting law enforcement (garda) and bus drivers. Garda vehicles and numerous buses were set ablaze, and parked vehicles throughout the city were damaged during the violent confrontations.
The most intense clashes transpired between O’Connell Street and Parnell Square East, where rioters launched fireworks at outnumbered law enforcement officers and engaged in widespread destruction. Incidents included the arson of Luas trams and the looting of shops, including Arnotts. As a consequence, Irish Rail suspended services from Tara station and other Luas stations, while Dublin buses ceased operations late into the night.
By midnight, the agitated crowd dispersed from the city, leaving behind a contingent of approximately 400 Garda officers. The Chief Superintendent of Garda Dublin reported that, despite the tumult, the situation was brought under control, with no reports of serious injuries.
The initial attack unfolded at Gaelscoil Cólaiste Mhuire in Parnell Square East, where junior and senior infants were preparing to attend an after-school club. In an unprovoked incident, a man of Algerian origin targeted the children, sparking the chain of events that led to the broader unrest.
Irish Samachar English News