President Michael D Higgins has said that the thoughts of people across Ireland are with the children and families affected by the horrific attack outside Gaelscoil Coláiste Mhuire in Dublin city centre yesterday afternoon.
In a statement on Thursday night, President Higgins said we are particularly thinking of the 5-year-old girl and the member of staff caring for her who were stabbed in the attack.
Both are in a serious condition in hospitals in Dublin, and President Higgins said that all of our prayers are with each of them for a full recovery.
A boy aged 5 and a girl aged 6 years, who received less serious injuries, were also brought to hospital for treatment.
Groups of angry protesters then took to the streets following social media reports about the alleged nationality of the attacker.
Far-right hooligans attacked gardaí, set fire to a bus, the Luas and garda vehicles, and hurled fireworks and other objects, bringing Dublin city centre to a standstill.
Thirteen shops were attacked and looted and 34 people have been arrested.
President Higgins condemned the shocking scenes, saying the Gardaí deserve all of our support in dealing with the horrific incident.
He condemned any attempts by these groups to use the horrific attack to further their agenda.
“This appalling incident is a matter for the Gardaí and that it would be used or abused by groups with an agenda that attacks the principle of social inclusion is reprehensible and deserves condemnation by all those who believe in the rule of law and democracy.”
