Investigation after security workers assaulted at planned Tipperary refugee site

A generic stock photo of a Garda in Dublin.

Investigations are underway after a number of security workers were assaulted and vehicles damaged at a site designated for refugees in Clonmel, Co Tipperary on Thursday.

Several security personnel who were contracted to work on the site were assaulted by a number of individuals. 

The Department of Integration and the Office of Public Works (OPW) are planning around 80 modular homes for Ukrainian refugees on the site.

One of the workers required hospital treatment. 

"No arrests have been made at this time," a Garda spokesperson said.

It is the latest in a wave of public order incidents across the country as anti-migrant group protests escalate. A spate of incidents have culminated in fires and unrest as politicians grapple with how to deal with the burgeoning refugee accommodation issue.

Separately, a convoy of trucks carrying modular homes was stopped by protesters from entering a site in Coole, Co Westmeath on Friday after reports it was to be used to house asylum seekers.

In relation to Clonmel, the OPW said: "Works have commenced to enable this site in Clonmel for the provision of 82 rapid build homes to house people displaced by the war in Ukraine. Public engagement has taken place over the last number of weeks with local councillors and Tipperary County Council. Works will progress on the site over the coming months with a view to site completion by the end of 2024.

"The OPW is aware of an incident in relation to damage caused to machinery on the site. The OPW is engaging with the contractor Sisk in relation to site security, and An Garda Síochána in relation to the public order issues arising at the site."

Gardaí are appealing for any person with any information on this incident to contact Clonmel Garda Station on 052 617 7640, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Gardaí are also appealing for any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling near the Heywood road and Clonmel Rugby Club areas 10:45pm and 11:30pm are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.