Gardaí defend policing operation in Dublin after 19 arrested in second night of trouble

Saturday night once again saw a strong Garda presence on the streets of the capital as officers armed with riot shields dispersed crowds from a number of areas such as Stephen's Green, Temple Bar and South William Street.

A senior garda has defended its policing operation in dealing with public order offences in Dublin, claiming it was to defend its members.

It is believed a small group of young people are behind the persistent antisocial behaviour on the streets of Dublin this weekend.