‘I’ll never let my children go into town again’

ON Thursday, November 23, the day of the knife attack which sparked the Dublin riots, Justice Minister Helen McEntee’s inbox was flooded from late afternoon.

3.51pm

‘I’m writing to you today to say you walk the streets in Dublin town and say it’s safe? Look what is happening today so many attacks. I’m sorry say Dublin is not safe we need see more safety, Gardaí on patrol on the street. It’s getting so unsafe I even left my course in town.’

4.09pm

‘What has happened in Dublin today is truly horrific. In light of this incident and others in recent times it is clear your position and that of the Garda Commissioner is no longer tenable.’

6.13pm

‘Minister, do you still think that Dublin is a safe city considering the events in Parnell Square today? You need to wake up and stop talking rubbish.’

7.40pm

‘It’s a horrendous situation that has happened... Please can you inform me how you still see Dublin city centre as a safe place. Please do not inform me that this is an isolated incident.’

8.18pm

‘You are failing miserably with regard to public safety on O’Connell Street. Your recent walkabout on Talbot Street announcing that it was perfectly safe was an insult to our intelligence.’

9.42pm

‘I am appalled at the riots that ensued on the back of an already chaotic day. Anyone involved who is on social benefits... should have all social benefits removed with immediate effect. This cohort cannot be allowed to gain any credence or airtime from this day onwards.’

9.56pm

‘Gardaí have a massive task in front of them in dealing with these despicable acts and I sympathise with what the gardaí have to deal with.’

10.47pm

‘I am outraged by the scenes of s ****** Irish far right and will never let my children go into town again where police are absent and control appears to be unattainable. May Dublin tonight RIP and may the Minister of Justice hang her name in shame for not tackling this issue sooner.’

11.17pm

‘Was there an intelligence failure? Unfortunately, the Garda Commissioner does not exactly inspire confidence or competence in any of his responses that I have seen and heard tonight.’

12.03am

‘I am sickened by the inaction by the Government and Garda Commissioner... this rests at your door.’