Statement from Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly on the serious public disorder in Saggart, Co. Dublin, yesterday, 21st October 2025. Yesterday evening, An Garda Síochána put in place a policing operation for a public gathering at Citywest. At approximately 7pm persons, participating in that public gathering attempted to breach the Garda cordon. This was not peaceful protest. Peaceful protest does not involve throwing bricks, bottles and discharging fireworks directly at Gardaí. Peaceful protest does not involve trying to breach a Garda Cordon with horses or scrambler motorbikes. Peaceful protest does not involve persons arming themselves with weapons. Peaceful protest does not involve burning Garda vehicles. This was violence with the intent to damage the Citywest Building and intimidate those within. An Garda Síochána escalated our capacity in response to the mounting violence, threats and attacks on Gardaí. An Garda Síochána deployed Public Order Units, supported by Water Cannon, Mounted Units and Dog Units. 6 persons were arrested, and 5 males have appeared before the Criminal Courts of Justice this morning. A criminal investigation into all the circumstance of this violent disorder is underway under the direction of a Senior Investigating Officer. I am determined that further persons will be identified and brought before the courts to face justice. This violent disorder impacted the local community, business and public transport in the Saggart area directly affecting local residents. This is totally unacceptable. An Garda Síochána is aware that further a public gathering is being proposed on social media for this evening. The evidence from the November 2023 Public Disorder is that young males, influenced by online content are the ones who have ended up imprisoned for serious offences. My clear message to any persons attending any public gathering with violent intent is do not get involve in violent disorder. Reckless decisions in this regard may affect the course of your future. An Garda Síochána response to any public gatherings will be fair and proportionate. However, I can promise that we will have a robust response again to any further disorder. One Garda received medical attention in hospital for an injury sustained yesterday evening and I wish her well in her recovery. I truly commend all members of An Garda Síochána on duty yesterday evening for their professionalism and courage and have been encouraged by the continuing public support we have received. | 