Gareth O'Callaghan: Gardaí have become a target as dissent grows

From the historic trials at Green St to the fiery riots of last November, Dublin’s northside streets tell a powerful tale

Justice Minister Helen McEntee with gardaí. For democracy to thrive and citizens to feel safe, the country must have a proactive government and strong Garda force. Picture: Colin Keegan/Collins

I spent an afternoon, last weekend, strolling through the narrow northside streets of Dublin city, close to where I spent much of my youth, in sunshine that was rare for this time of year.

These side streets are steeped in history, including Green St, where one of Ireland’s once most famous courthouses stands. The ashlar-stone building was part of a complex which included three prisons — Newgate, the Sheriff’s Prison, and the City Marshalsea.