Dublin Sees Third Night of Unrest as Protesters Target Asylum Hotel
DUBLIN – protests escalated into violence in Dublin for a third consecutive night, with demonstrators targeting a hotel housing asylum seekers. Teh unrest on Tuesday resulted in injuries to at least one woman, who has as been discharged from hospital after treatment for a foot injury, and a garda vehicle being set on fire.
The violence follows days of demonstrations sparked by an alleged attack on a primary school teacher last week. Protesters displayed Irish flags, chanted anti-immigration slogans, and threw missiles at officers. Attempts were also made to breach police lines using horse-drawn carts and scrambler bikes, while a police helicopter was targeted with lasers.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly, visiting the scene Wednesday, stated he was “determined” that more individuals would be “brought before the courts to face justice.” He characterized the disorder as ”violence with the intent to damage the Citywest building and intimidate those within,” and not a peaceful protest.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin condemned the violence, asserting there was “no justification” for attacks on gardaí.
Ireland has seen a rise in asylum applications in recent months,placing strain on accommodation services. The Citywest Convention Center, among other locations, has been used to house those seeking international protection while their applications are processed. The ongoing protests reflect growing tensions surrounding immigration and integration within the country.
