Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan regarding Ongoing Protests

Today I went to the Garda Control Centre to meet with senior members of An Garda Síochána responsible for policing the ongoing protests throughout the country. I emphasised to them that while Government respects the right to protest, that right must be exercised lawfully and must respect the rights of others to earn a livelihood or to move freely.

I also informed the Gardaí that it is essential our ports and fuel depots remain open and fully accessible.

Government is well aware of the pressures on people from increased fuel costs, but democracy cannot be dictated to by an unelected group whose actions are now damaging the Irish public.

No one is above the law and those breaking the law should know that there are consequences for unlawful activity.

ENDS...///