Violence at Citywest Over Asylum Seeker Housing

Violence flared for a third straight night outside the Citywest Hotel in Saggart, Co. Dublin, where hundreds — with up to 1,000 reported on one night — clashed with Gardaí over plans to house asylum seekers after an alleged sexual assault of a ten‑year‑old. Protesters threw bottles, bricks, fireworks and masonry, and a Garda van was set alight; at least two dozen people were arrested, several were charged, and a female garda was injured and treated. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly and Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan pledged a robust response as nearly 300 officers, including public order, mounted and dog units and a helicopter, were deployed. Transport services in the area were suspended, local families reported feeling scared, and police said misinformation and anti‑migrant groups mobilised via social media fuelled much of the unrest.