Gardaí have been urged to take a “strong hand” against people who use blockades as a form of protest. 

This year, blockades have been formed in various locations by people unhappy at the Government’s decision to house asylum seekers in their area. 

Speaking to Newstalk, Green Party Senator Pauline O’Reilly said she did not want to see this type of behaviour become routine. 

“It shouldn’t be tolerated,” she said. 

“I think that the Guards need to take a strong hand. 

“We’ve seen too many of these instances [where] it’s being stirred by politicians but, ultimately, people need to be clear that blockades are not acceptable. 

“They’re creating huge fear in our communities and it’s just not representative of the people - certainly, not the people of Galway.” 

Senator O’Reilly said she believed in the right to protest - but rejected the idea that blockades are part of that. 

“There’s a complete difference between a protest - which people are entitled to do,” she said. 

“[Such as] protest through the streets, have meetings, meet with local representatives, protest outside offices like the council.

"A big difference between that - and something that is blocking people’s entrance from their home.

“This kind of style of… vigilante approach shouldn’t be tolerated.”

Over the weekend, a blockade was formed outside the Ross Lake House Hotel in Rosscahill.

Main image: Pictured is the turn off for Magowna Hotel in Clare, where locals have set up a blockade. Photograph: Eamonn Farrell / © RollingNews.ie