Two people arrested in connection with clashes between protesters and supporters of COVID-19 restrictions

DUBLIN: Two people have been arrested in connection with clashes between National Party activists opposing the COVID-19 restrictions and a mob of more than 100 supporters of the COVID restrictions as they lined up outside Leinster House.

Garda said they were investigating the organisers of the two protests, which were held in breach of the health department rules.

The National Party’s rally was held at 1pm yesterday under the banner ‘Let Ireland Live.’

Hundreds of protesters who backed the restrictions reached Molesworth Street, entered Kildare Street, and turned to protesters. Gardaí intervened to keep the two groups apart and forced the counter demonstrators.

Counter-protesters, including women, wore face masks but did not follow any other restrictions.

The National Party dispersed from Leinster House around 3pm. But as the Garda operation continued, counter demonstrators continued to stage numerous protests.

There have been constant protests outside Leinster House over the past few days against face masks and restrictions. Following this, the counter demonstrators also arrived today.