Trams under fire in Dublin

Damage done to public infrastructure in Dublin could cost in the tens of millions of euros, Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said. 

 

Politicans have strongly criticised the violent scenes in Dublin that saw public infrastructure damage as well the looting of shops and businesses.  

 

Rioters burnt out a bus and attacked LUAS tram 5037 in O’Connell Street, breaking all its windows and setting fire to one section.  

 

The clean-up on O'Connell St has begun and the damaged vehicle has been removed by cranes whilst broken glass and various missles have been cleaned away. 

 

More than 30 people were scheduled to appear before the courts charged with offences relating to theft and public disorder. 

 

The premier is keen to encourage shoppers back to the city centre among heightened security and Garda presence. 

 

The violence flared after a knife attack on three schoolchildren and their care assistant in the north of the city. Members of the public who intervened have been hailed as 'heroes'. 

 

When asked about the level of damage, Mr Varadkar said, 'We don't have a figure on it yet, but its likely to be in the tens of millions, rather than the millions.'