Mac Donncha criticises “effort to spread fear and hate” in Coolock

Sinn Féin councillor Mícheál Mac Donncha has criticised what he calls the”deplorable” public order incident that took place on Malahide Road, at the former Crown Paint site.

Gardaí were called to the scene of a disturbance in Coolock, where a digger was set on fire at a site earmarked as a location for international protection applicants.

The Department of Integration previously stated that the site is to be developed to accommodate families applying for international protection.

An attempt was also made to set the vacant building on fire.

The Donaghmede councillor said the violence in the area was an effort “to spread fear and hate” and that the “vast majority of decent people want nothing to do with it.”

He said that people who have concerns over the issue should raise it “peacefully and democratically.”

“Violence, intimidation and arson have no place in our communities,” he said.

“Everyone deserves respect, including men, women and children due to be accommodated at this site.”

“Equally, we need to see constructive engagement with communities to ensure that all necessary facilities are in place for both the local population and those accommodated in the centre.”

Mac Donncha’s Sinn Féin colleague Daithí Doolan told RTÉ that an individual involved in the protests has “political pedigree” through past involvement with the far-right British National Party.

He said that the unnamed individual, who is known to authorities, is a convicted drug dealer and had previously boasted of “flooding Ireland with drugs.”

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said “I am appalled at the criminal behaviour that took place in Coolock today. I have spoken to the Garda Commissioner and he has assured me that everything will be done to bring those responsible to justice.”

“Gardaí were on the scene immediately and the public order unit is onsite; people engaged in such acts will face the full rigours of the law,” she said.