Some 16 people appeared in court today with various charges of public disorder in Cork city centre last night. 

Thirteen men and three women, aged between 20 and 27, were charged with several offences that took place on Oliver Plunkett Street, Daunt Square, Patrick Street, Cornmarket Street and Grand Parade. 

No exact details were about the alleged incidents as evidence of arrest, charge and caution for all 16 was given by certificate. 

The charges included assault, using threatening or abusive language, insulting behaviour and charges under the Misuse of Drugs Act. 

Judge John King was told that the majority of the defendants worked in areas of employment including supermarkets, a sports shop and in trades. 

One of the defendants has just graduated from college while another is due to start a university course in Belfast. 

Free legal aid was granted to the majority of the defendants as their income fell under the threshold. 

All of the defendants were remanded on bail but were told to stay out of Cork city centre except for medical or legal appointments. 

One defendant works in the city centre and was told he could only be there during his rostered hours and would have to go home immediately afterwards. 

Gardaí reported earlier this morning that members of the force were trying to help an injured man last night in Cork when a large group of people gathered around them. 

“Those present refused to leave the area and a number of additional Garda units were called to the scene to provide assistance,” a statement said. 

“Incapacitant spray was used as part of an escalated response to the increasingly aggressive public order incidents.” 

One Garda was pushed to the ground, according to the statement. 

The 16 defendants will appear in court again on October 8th. 

Reporting by Olivia Kelleher.