Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Mícheál Mac Donncha has described as “deplorable” the scenes at the Malahide Road today.

He said that the scenes were an effort to spread fear and hate, and that the vast majority of decent people want nothing to do with it.

He added that any concerns that people have must be raised peacefully and democratically, and that violence, intimidation and arson have no place in our communities.

Cllr. Mac Donncha said:

“The scenes witnessed at the former Crown site on the Malahide today are deplorable. The burning of vehicles and attempted burning of the building are violent criminal acts and must be strongly condemned.

“Those responsible should desist immediately. This is an effort to spread fear and hate in our communities and the vast majority of decent people want nothing to do with it.

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

“Any concerns that people have about this should be raised peacefully and democratically. Violence, intimidation and arson should have no place in our communities.

“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.”