Violence Erupts at Citywest Hotel, 23 Arrested, Two Gardai Injured

Twenty-three individuals have been arrested following a second night of violent unrest at the Citywest Hotel complex in Dublin. The disturbances, which began on March 21, 2024, escalated into clashes between protesters and law enforcement, resulting in two members of An Garda Síochána being hospitalized. One officer suffered a head injury after being struck by a bottle, while another sustained injuries to their arm and shoulder during the confrontations.

On the evening of March 22, large crowds gathered outside the hotel, prompting the deployment of public order units equipped with riot shields. Officers faced a barrage of objects, including fireworks and bottles, as they attempted to maintain control. Despite some of the crowd dispersing, a significant police presence remained, with approximately 300 gardai on site, including 150 uniformed officers and additional support from specialized units.

A spokesperson for An Garda Síochána reported that the public disorder was primarily instigated by young adult males and teenagers. The spokesperson stated, “Members of An Garda Síochána were subjected to ongoing verbal abuse and missiles being thrown, including bottles and masonry.” To address the escalating situation, a senior investigating officer is leading an ongoing inquiry from an incident room at Clondalkin Garda Station.

Government Officials Respond to Violence

Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan condemned the violence and emphasized that those involved would face legal consequences. He remarked, “An Garda Síochána have again bravely and professionally responded to thuggish violence at Citywest tonight. Many have been arrested, and more will follow.”

The unrest began in response to an alleged sexual assault involving a 10-year-old girl near the hotel earlier in the week. Protests erupted following this incident, leading to heightened tensions in the area. Taoiseach Micheál Martin also denounced the violence, stating, “There can be no justification for attacks on gardai.”

In a further warning, Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly cautioned the public against participating in violent protests. He noted that many of the individuals involved in the unrest were influenced by online content and emphasized the need for peaceful demonstrations. “Reckless decisions in this regard may affect the course of your future,” he stated.

Aftermath of the Disturbances

As dawn broke on March 23, the extent of the damage was clear. Broken glass and debris littered the streets, and a burned-out garda vehicle remained on the scene. Local residents expressed their fear and frustration regarding the violence, with one stating, “It’s absolute madness.”

The violence also prompted disruptions to local services. The Luas Red Line services between Belgard and Saggart were suspended during the unrest, and damage was reported at various locations, including a nearby train stop. Community leaders, including Kevin Shortall, principal of St Aidan’s Community School, expressed concern for the safety of students and families in the area.

In the wake of the violence, gardaí have initiated investigative measures to identify those responsible for the attacks. As the community begins to recover, officials are preparing for potential further protests, having implemented plans based on lessons learned from previous events.

The situation at Citywest reflects broader societal tensions, with some residents voicing concerns over the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centre located nearby. While many locals share frustrations regarding the centre, they also stress that the violence does not represent the community as a whole.

As authorities work to restore order, the focus remains on ensuring public safety and holding those responsible for the unrest accountable.