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Taoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin said he \u201cutterly condemns\u201d the protests in Dublin city center on Saturday.<\/p>\nTaoiseach Miche\u00e1l Martin said he \u201cutterly condemns\u201d the protests in Dublin city center on Saturday.<\/p>\n
Mr Martin said the protests posed \u201can unacceptable risk to both the public and garda\u00ed\u201d.<\/p>\n
In a statement, the Taoiseach said: \u201cThe large gathering, in the face of ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, showed a complete lack of respect to the people who have made huge sacrifices during this pandemic.<\/p>\n
\u201cNor can we tolerate the thuggish behavior or attacks on gardai, who have the public\u2019s utmost respect as they continue to protect and serve our society in difficult circumstances.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere can be no justification for the march or the violence that unfolded, and I pay tribute to members of An Garda Siochana who moved quickly to make arrests and restore order.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Minister for Justice has also condemned the violence in Dublin following an anti-lockdown protest.<\/p>\n
Helen McEntee described the clashes as \u201ccompletely unacceptable\u201d.<\/p>\n
In a statement Ms McEntee said: \u201cI have spoken to the Garda Commissioner this evening and he has told me the disturbance in Dublin is being brought under control.<\/p>\n
\u201cI know there have been a number of arrests already today and a special court sitting is being arranged to make sure these law-breakers are prosecuted speedily. I understand fixed charge notices have also been issued to a number of people.<\/p>\n
\u201cI want to commend the courage and professionalism of the Gardai on duty today in Dublin who responded with great control and discipline in an extremely challenging situation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis situation was completely unacceptable and was an insult to so many who have worked so hard in the fight against Covid-19 and to those who have died.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis mindless thuggery showed a willful and blatant disregard for the public health rules which are needed to help us all and keep us safe.\u201d<\/p>\n
Fireworks and other objects were thrown at garda\u00ed during the protest.<\/p>\n
T\u00e1naiste Leo Varadkar said he was \u201chorrified\u201d to see protesters clash with police on the streets of Dublin.<\/p>\n
Mr Varadkar tweeted: \u201cIrish people have spent last year fighting Covid.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere is no excuse for violence to gardai or anyone.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis behavior on Grafton St by a selfish few undermines sacrifices that millions have made in the last 12 months.\u201d<\/p>\n