Taoiseach Says Coolock Protests Were Hijacked By 'Thugs'

Taoiseach Simon Harris has described yesterday's disturbances in Coolock as the "hijacking of a situation" by a group of people who engaged in "utter thuggery".

This comes following violent disturbances which unfolded in Coolock yesterday, at a proposed development for International Protection applicants after trucks and construction equipment were brought to the site.

Such incidents include the throwing of petrol bombs, a digger being set on fire, and two Garda cars being damaged. Footage of these incidents was captured and shared via social media. A security guard was left injured following these disturbances. 

This led to 19 arrests, with 15 people charges over public order offences, who have appeared in court. Four people are also expected in court today.

Following these violent scenes, the Taoiseach has stated that no amount of community engagement could have prevented what unfolded in Coolock.

The response of the public order and Gardaí were also praised by Commissioner Drew Harris, who said it was a "serious public disorder" within "a very volatile and difficult situation". The Commissioner also described the violence as unacceptable, but insisted that it was soon brought under control.

Elsewhere, Justice Minister Helen McEntee has also blasted the disturbances in Coolock as "totally unacceptable", adding that they "will not be tolerated". The minister also said that she expects "more arrests later on in the day".

"Importantly, as well, bodycams were used yesterday and will be part of the evidence in the coming weeks and months", she said. 

Ms McEntee also stated that plans to accommodate IP applicants at the site in Coolock "will continue as set out", saying that Minister for Integration Roderic O'Gorman and his department are "engaging with communities". 

She also had this say regarding the spreading of information online:  "Unfortunately we are in an era where misinformation, disinformation and discourse can spread online". 

"It has been known for sometime now that there would be men, women and children taking refuge in Coolock", she added.