Last night’s violence on the streets of Dublin City Centre was described as ‘unjustified thuggery’ by the Gardaí and had absolutely no connection to the Parnell Square attack.
The streets of the capital have now been restored to calm after a night of unprecedented violence, where rioters assaulted Gardaí, set fires, and looted shops.
During the chaos, two double-decker buses and a Luas cable car were set ablaze.
Meanwhile, looters wreaked havoc by destroying shopfronts and breaking into stores such as Footlocker, JD Sports, and Arnotts.
Chief reporter Barry Whyte, in a special report for Newstalk, described the situation as ‘total turmoil’ in the city, stating that “all order was completely lost.”
A double decker bus and a car set on fire on the edge of O’Connell Bridge during riots in Dublin, 23-11-2023. Image: Sam Boal/RollingNews
Garda Chief Superintendent Patrick McMenamin addressed the situation shortly after 11 pm, indicating that peace had been restored after hours of violence.
“Last night, small groups of violent individuals unleashed significant levels of public order vandalism and violence in Dublin city centre,” he stated.
“This violence had absolutely nothing to do with the severe attack that occurred this afternoon on Parnell Square.
“It was unjustified thuggery. Not only was public transportation attacked, but also Garda vehicles and several business properties.”
No serious injuries were reported as a result of the clashes, according to McMenamin.
“Some of my colleagues were also assaulted, but fortunately, no major injuries were sustained,” he added.
“At its peak, An Garda Síochána responded to a developing situation with 400 members on patrol in Dublin city centre.
“Now, Dublin city centre DCC is calm and returning to normal, and we will continue to monitor the situation.
“I want to express my gratitude to the public for their support and patience during tonight’s operation.”
Today, a five-year-old girl remains in critical condition in the hospital following the stabbing outside Gaelscoil Coláiste Mhuire on Parnell Square East yesterday afternoon.
A woman in her 30s is also in serious condition.
Two other children were injured in the attack as well.
Gardaí have been awaiting the opportunity to interview a man receiving medical treatment for his injuries at the hospital.
They are pursuing a “specific line of questioning” and are not seeking any other individuals in relation to the attack.
In a statement last night, President Michael D Higgins condemned the groups attempting to exploit the attack for their own agenda.
“This tragic incident is a matter for the Gardaí, and the fact that it is being used or manipulated by groups with an agenda that undermines social inclusion is wicked and deserves condemnation from all those who believe in the rule of law and democracy,” he said.
Public transportation is gradually returning to its regular service today, with Dublin Bus services resuming.
The company advises customers to expect delays and diversions throughout the day.
On the night of August 28th, Dublin experienced a night of chaos
