Harney: Rioters played into hands of Orange Order

The Tánaiste, Mary Harney, has accused those involved in the Dublin riots on Saturday of playing into the hands of the Orange Order.

Asked about the violence in the capital this morning, Ms Harney said a group of "thugs" had denied people their right to protest.

"I don't have much respect for the Orange Order, because it is a sectarian, bigoted organisation, but I do respect people's right to march," she said.

"I think that they have got a great coup in being prevented from marching. Those that sought to stop them have played right into their hands."

A report on the violence is currently being prepared by gardaí and is expected be presented to Minister for Justice Michael McDowell this evening before being discussed by the Cabinet tomorrow.