DUBLIN (WKBT) — Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris has condemned the violent anti-immigration clashes that erupted at a planned asylum-seeker housing facility in Dublin on Monday. The clashes resulted in 15 arrests and significant property damage.
The violence took place at a construction site in the north of Dublin, which was earmarked to house up to 500 asylum seekers. The site, a former paint factory, became the scene of intense protests as demonstrators set machinery and construction materials on fire. Videos posted on social media showed protesters throwing bricks and launching fireworks at the police, who responded with pepper spray to disperse the crowd of over 100 mostly male teenagers.
Prime Minister Harris criticized the actions of the protesters, stating, “No person has a right to burn cars, damage property, or attack the police. These actions are criminal and are designed to sow fear and division. We should not accept them being legitimized in any way by describing them as ‘protest.’”
The clashes are the latest in a series of protests at sites designated for asylum seekers, which have seen a marked increase in Ireland in recent years. According to the integration ministry, protests at the site entrance have delayed the start of work “for several months.” The ministry, responsible for housing asylum seekers, condemned the violence and intimidation directed at service providers and their employees.
“A number of Garda vehicles have been damaged,” the police said, referring to the Irish national force. One video showed a worker at the site being removed on a stretcher after the clashes.
Ireland’s Justice Minister Helen McEntee expressed her dismay at the events, telling the Irish Times newspaper, “I am appalled by the scenes. Those involved will face the full rigours of the law.”
The increase in violence has been noted since 2022, with a sharp rise in arson attacks on properties intended to accommodate asylum seekers. Last November, Dublin witnessed violent riots sparked by unrest over increased immigration, further inflamed by a knife attack outside a school. During these riots, several properties housing asylum seekers were targeted.
The government has reiterated its commitment to addressing these issues and ensuring the safety of both asylum seekers and those working to support them. The integration ministry highlighted the importance of proceeding with housing projects despite the opposition, stressing that criminal acts will not deter their efforts to provide necessary accommodations for asylum seekers arriving in Ireland.
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