A large Garda presence remains in Dundrum this lunchtime amid tense scenes following the arrival of 70 International Protection Applicants to Dundrum House Hotel.
As many as 100 people maintained a vigil there overnight, as the protest outside the gates entered its 77th day.
Around 50 protesters remain at the gates of Dundrum House this lunchtime.
The arrival of two more busses containing IPA’s just before midday resulted in another Garda cordon on the Ballytemple Road as people maintained a peaceful protest.
Up to 100 people gathered their overnight and early this morning pending the arrival of 70 IPA’s which had been reported since last Thursday.
Superintendent Eddie Golden addressed the crowd just after 7am and acknowledged their peaceful protest to date and appealed for calm. That followed the arrival of up to 90 Gardaí including regular, Public Order unit and the K9 unit.
There was a skirmish at the front gate and one man was taken away by Gardaí but has since been released.
Protesters here say they feel sad and defeated yet remain defiant. They say the fight to save the area’s only hotel will continue.
The Garda presence remains with Gardaí just finished the process of removing a blockade of stone from the front gate. Speaking to Tipp FM Superintendent Eddie Golden said Gardaí will remain in position until they are confident the area is safe.
