Garda Stabbed on Capel Street: Business Owner Sees Closure Soon

BREAKING: A Garda officer was stabbed on Capel Street yesterday evening, prompting urgent concerns from local business owners about safety and viability. The attack, described as “unprovoked,” occurred just after 6 PM on October 24, 2023, leading to fears that one business may close within a year due to escalating violence in the area.

The officer, who was on patrol, was injured during the incident but is reported to have non-life-threatening injuries and is currently receiving treatment in hospital. Authorities have confirmed a man was arrested at the scene, and the incident is being treated as a random assault, with no indications of terrorism.

Local business owner, who has operated on Capel Street for over 15 years, expressed her distress over the rising violence. “It’s shocking, it’s heartbreaking,” she stated, emphasizing that if conditions do not improve, her business will likely not survive the next 12 months. The owner criticized the recent pedestrianization of the street, suggesting it has led to increased drinking, loitering, and fighting, creating an unbearable environment.

“It has given people the opportunity to sit around and drink during the day,” she lamented. “There’s constant arguments, bottles being smashed, and blood being shed on the street. I wouldn’t let my daughter walk here anymore.”

The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from officials. Taoiseach Micheal Martin expressed his outrage, stating, “I am appalled by the shocking unprovoked attack. My thoughts are with the injured Garda and his colleagues at this time. I urge anyone with information to contact the Gardaí.”

Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald echoed these sentiments, calling the attack “utterly unacceptable” and highlighting the danger posed to public safety in broad daylight.

In a statement, Niall Hodgins, Vice-President of the Garda Representative Association, extended well wishes to the injured officer and praised his bravery during the assault. “There is never, ever, an excuse for being exposed to such acts of random violence,” Hodgins remarked, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures for officers on duty.

As the situation develops, local residents and business owners are left in a state of anxiety over the future of Capel Street. With escalating violence and public safety concerns, many are calling for urgent action from authorities to restore a sense of security in the area.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.