‘‘Utterly unacceptable’’: Kildare representatives condemn violent scenes in Dublin last night

A number of local representatives based in County Kildare have condemned the violent scenes in Dublin last night.

It was reported earlier today that 34 people were arrested and 32 people will appear before the courts today, after a night of rioting in Dublin City Centre.

The hectic scenes broke out following the stabbing of five people, including three children, on Parnell Square on Thursday.

A large number of users on social media have commented on the rioting that rocked Dublin last night, one of whom was Social Democrats councillor Chris Pender.

He said in a post: "Recent events in Dublin, particularly the stabbing at Gaelscoil Coláiste Mhuire affecting a child and a school staff member, are deeply troubling and heartbreaking.

"The subsequent violence only worsens the situation, failing to support those affected and casting a dark shadow over our community.

"The attacks on gardaí and the destruction in our city centre, including damage to emergency services and public property, are utterly unacceptable. It's disheartening to see such disregard for our community’s safety and well-being.

The Newbridge-based politician also said he is 'particularly disturbed by the involvement of far-right groups and the hooliganism in these riots.'

Cllr Chris Pender

He elaborated: "Their exploitation of this tragedy to incite violence and spread divisive ideologies is reprehensible, damaging property and undermining Dublin's spirit of inclusivity.

"The far-right's hijacking of this situation for their agenda underscores the challenges in upholding our values of diversity and inclusivity.

"My thoughts are with the injured, their families, and the school staff member, wishing them a full and speedy recovery.

"I extend full support to the Gardaí and all emergency services working to restore order: their efforts are commendable and crucial for our community's safety."

Cllr Pender continued: "To the people of Dublin, I urge you to stand against fear and misinformation... let's unite against the divisive rhetoric of the far-right and others exploiting this tragedy.

"Supporting each other, staying informed, and focusing on healing and understanding are vital.

"To those involved in the Dublin riots, understand the harm caused: you've destroyed shops, affecting the livelihoods of many; you've damaged public transport systems, essential to our community; you've vandalised emergency vehicles, crucial for everyone's safety."

He concluded: "Despite these challenges, I believe in our community's resilience and commitment to peace and unity."

Independent TD Dr Cathal Berry told the Leader that he noticed 'a somber, grim mood in Dublin today', along with a stronger garda presence.

He also referenced the Aid to Civil Power protocol, also known as Aid to the Civil Authority protocol, which is when the Irish Defence Forces are called upon to help the gardaí.

The protocol is usually applied in situations such as bomb disposals or to provide aid to civilians during floods.

"It was also used a lot during The Troubles," Dr Berry TD said: "And for example, if you go to different cities in Europe, such as Paris, there are soldiers in certain locations.

"It used to be normal here too in the '70s, '80s and '90s.

"Thankfully, the Cathal Brugha Barracks are still open, you could station troops there if need be," he added.

Dr Cathal Berry TD.

On his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Dr Berry TD also shared a post by journalist Don Lavery.

The post praised Caio Benicio, the Brazilian national who tackled the assailant during the attack on Parnell Square, as well as the efforts of gardaí.

It read: "A young Brazilian man who tackled the knifeman - preventing him from stabbing more children - deserves our highest award for bravery.

"He didn't have to put himself in harm's way but he did.

"Gardai who held the line against fascist anarchy - thank you."

Lastly, Dr Berry also shared a post made on X by the Irish Medical Organisation, which condemned the violence and extended sympathies to the children and carer injured in the Parnell Square attack.

Fianna Fáil TD James Lawless shared an article on X by TheJournal.ie in which the publication interview Mr Benicio.

The post also contained the following excerpt from the article: "'It looks like they hate immigrants. Well I am an immigrant, and I did what I could to try and save that little girl," he (Mr Benicio) said.'"

In addition, Mr Lawless TD reposted a status on X by director and producer Jim Sheridan, which related to the killing of Urantsetseg Tserendorj.

It read: "This is Urantsetseg Tserendorj, who was stabbed to death by an Irish man in 2022.

"Nobody took to the streets burning and looting…Why? It’s because the far-right 'grifters' and racist scum don’t care about women or children, they just want an excuse to cause hate and division."

James Lawless TD

Another TD, Fine Gael's Martin Heydon, took to his Instagram story to share a video of Minister for Justice (and his party colleague) Helen McEntee condemning the violence witnessed during the riots.

Martin Heydon TD