Dublin calm after violence, 13 charged with rioting and looting

Calm has been restored to the streets of the country's capital this morning, as authorities and political leaders turn to analyse yesterday's violence.

Extensive rioting broke out in the city centre as loyalists attempted to stage a ‘Love Ulster’ parade, Dublin's first Orange march.

At least 14 people, including six gardaí were hospitalised in the worst scenes of violence seen on the streets of the capital for over 25 years.

The rioting broke out at about 1pm when about 300 protestors attacked gardaí protecting loyalist marchers at the top of O’Connell Street and the parade had to be cancelled.

The rioters threw fireworks, bricks and other rubble from building sites.

Shops were also attacked and looted on O’Connell Street and Nassau Street, while two cars were burned out.

In all 41 people were arrested and 13 appeared before a special sitting of Dublin district court last night.

Two youths were remanded in custody, but the other 11 were granted bail.

Politicians on both sides of the border are taking stock this morning following yesterday's riot in Dublin city Centre.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has condemned the behaviour of the rioters.

Speaking yesterday afternoon, the Taoiseach said he believed a number of northerners had travelled to Dublin with ‘serious intent’ to create trouble.

Yesterday's riots have raised fears that they could affect the outstanding issues in the northern peace process.

There are concerns that Ian Paisley's DUP Party will take advantage of the disturbances to stall further any resumption of the stalled Northern Assembly at Stormont.