Ireland

Teen released after arrest over Leinster House break-in

Dublin's Leinster House. Picture by Niall Carson/PA
Dublin's Leinster House. Picture by Niall Carson/PA Dublin's Leinster House. Picture by Niall Carson/PA

A 16-year-old male has been released by Gardaí after being arrested in connection with a break in at Dublin's Leinster House.

An investigation is underway after the building, which houses the Dáil and Seanad Éireann, was accessed at around 4pm on Saturday.

It is understood damage was caused while the building was accessed from the Merrion Street side, and Gardaí are treating the incident as trespass.

The teenager was later released without charge, while a file is being prepared for the Garda Youth Diversion Programme.

Seanad Cathaoirleach Jerry Buttimer said the issue will be discussed at a meeting of the Oireachtas Commission, describing the incident as a "very serious breach of security that must be investigated".

He added it was "concerning the person was able to gain access" to the building.