Two arrested at protests in Dublin as European leaders gather
There was a heavy security operation in place during the events in the Irish capital on Thursday.
Two people have been arrested amid protests in Dublin as European leaders gathered in the Irish capital.
Crowds gathered at Westmoreland Street in the city centre for a Mothers Against Genocide protest against the war in Palestine while 50 political leaders attended the summit at the Convention Centre.
The largest security operation in the history of the Irish state is in place for the hosting of the European Political Community.
It includes a security zone around the Convention Centre – with vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists prohibited from accessing the area.
Protesters gathered on Dame Street, Grafton Street and D’Olier Street on Thursday afternoon while a significant Gardaí presence was in place.
Those taking part in demonstrations carried Palestine flags and Irish tricolours, and banners, including one calling for a boycott of Israel.
Later there was another protest with Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign and People Before Profit at the Spire on O’Connell Street.
In a statement on Thursday evening, Gardaí said two males had been arrested.
“As part of An Garda Síochána ongoing policing and security operation in Dublin City under Operation Cuspoir Stair two males were arrested this afternoon for offences contrary to the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994,” a Garda spokesperson said.
“Both persons were taken to a Garda Station in the city centre. One male has been released pending completion of an Adult Caution. The second male remains detained at this time.”
They added: “An Garda Síochána has no further comment at this time.”