Violence flares in Dublin as protesters hurl stones and fireworks at police for third night

Violence Erupts Again in Dublin Amid Protests Near Asylum Seeker Hotel

For the second consecutive night, Irish police were targeted with stones and fireworks in Dublin.

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered near the entrance of a hotel accommodating asylum seekers in the capital’s western district.

The unrest marks the third night of protests at Citywest following an alleged sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl near the hotel early Monday.

A 26-year-old man, whose identity remains protected under Irish law regarding sexual assault cases, appeared in court Tuesday facing charges related to the incident.

Arrests were made during Tuesday night’s clashes, and An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s police service, warned of a strong response if further violence occurred.

On Wednesday evening, hundreds of protesters again confronted roughly 40 uniformed officers. Police later deployed a public order unit equipped with shields and protective gear after debris, stones, and fireworks struck the initial cordon.

Some demonstrators pelted officers with masonry, flares, glass bottles, and wooden planks.

Near the Saggart Luas tram stop, which runs alongside the protest route, property damage was reported.

Public order officers used shields to push the crowd farther from the hotel. A mounted unit, dog handlers, and a police helicopter provided additional support.

At least one officer was exposed to pepper spray, while others faced attempts to block police vehicles with steel barriers.

Though Monday’s protest was mostly peaceful, a female officer sustained injuries during Tuesday’s unrest. She has since been treated and released from hospital. Earlier in the week, a police vehicle was set alight.

Commissioner Justin Kelly, who assessed the scene after clashes, stated Wednesday that those responsible would face prosecution.

“This was not peaceful protest,” he said. “It was violence aimed at damaging property and intimidating those inside the building.”

Taoiseach Micheál Martin condemned the attacks on police, saying there was no excuse for such actions.

Protesters displayed Irish flags, voiced anti-immigration slogans, and hurled objects. On Tuesday, some attempted to breach police lines using horse-drawn carts and motorbikes, while others directed lasers at a helicopter overhead.