The Republic's justice minister has called for a "tough and firm response" after a US tourist was left with serious injuries after being attacked by a group of people in Dublin.
The 57-year-old male tourist was set upon by the group at around 10.40pm on Wednesday at Talbot Place, off Talbot Street, shortly after he left his accommodation.
It has been reported that the victim was kicked a number of times in the head, and now faces potentially life-changing injuries.
A Garda spokesperson said the man was taken to Dublin's Beaumont Hospital for treatment, where his condition is described as "serious but stable".
No arrests have been made.
The spokesperson said investigations into the attack "are ongoing", adding: "Gardaí are appealing to anyone with information in relation to this incident or who may have video footage to contact Store Street Garda Station on 01 666 8000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station."
In a statement, justice minister Helen McEntee said: "There can be no excuse for such violence and intimidation and I fully understand the concerns of the local community.
"A tough and firm response will send out the message that we will not tolerate this thuggery on our streets.
"People must have confidence they can safely walk the streets of our capital. I am in regular contact with Commissioner Harris on the issue of Garda visibility."
Independent Dublin councillor Nial Ring called for Ms McEntee to make immediate steps to ensure there were more officers "on the streets and on the beat".
“I don’t want Talbot Street and the surrounding streets to become a no-go area, but that’s exactly what is going to happen unless the minister commits to making the north inner city a safe place to be," he said.
