Local representatives have been speaking out against immigration and Government policy in areas such as Roscrea, Co Tipperary, where there were protests over plans to house asylum seekers in a former hotel

Mr Donnelly said that what had happened in Roscrea “should not have happened” and must have been very traumatic for the children and families being brought into what was “essentially their refuge, their new home.”

Scuffles broke out at the Racket Hall Hotel on Monday as protesters gathered while asylum seekers were being taken into the premises

Local councillor Shane Lee said the actions of the Garda public order unit had been 'a step too far'

Protesters had gathered outside the Racket Hall Hotel in Roscrea, Co Tipperary.