Micheál Martin hits out at social media platforms over 'mindless, ill-informed stuff' sparking violent protests

Defence Minister said he was 'very concerned' about what was happening in Britain and Belfast and the level of violence involved, saying governments have to tackle social media giants

There were violent clashes in Belfast during an anti-immigration protest at the weekend.

The "appalling" violence in Britain and the North in recent days stems from "mindless, ill-informed stuff" facilitated by social media platforms, with Elon Musk's X particularly problematic, according to Tánaiste Micheál Martin.

The Defence Minister admitted he was "very concerned" about what was happening in Britain and Belfast and the level of violence involved, saying governments have to tackle social media giants, only some of whom are cooperating with nations' leaders.