Jim O'Callaghan

Gardaí were pelted with missiles and fireworks and a Garda van was set on fire during the public disorder, which started after up to 2,000 protesters gathered outside the accommodation centre.

The anti-migrant demonstration was called after a man appeared in court accused of the sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl.

In a statement last night, the minister for justice, home affairs and migration said: “As has been made clear during the day, a man has been arrested and charged before the courts in relation to the alleged incident.

“While I am not in a position to comment any further on this criminal investigation, I have been advised that there is no ongoing threat to public safety in the area.

“Unfortunately, the weaponising of a crime by people who wish to sow dissent in our society is not unexpected. The gardaí are prepared for this, but attacking gardaí and property is not an answer, and won’t help to make anyone feel safe.

“It is clear to me from talking to colleagues during the day and this evening that this violence does not reflect the people of Saggart.

“They are not the people participating in this criminality, but rather the people sitting at home in fear of it.

“Attacks on gardaí will not be tolerated. Peaceful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy. Violence is not. There is no excuse for the scenes we have witnessed tonight.”

Six people have been arrested in connection with the disorder, according to An Garda Síochána.