Taoiseach Simon Harris has criticised "reprehensible" scenes in Coolock in north Dublin.
Several people were arrested during violent scenes at a site which is due to house International Protection applicants.
The Garda Public Order Unit is at the scene and officers used pepper spray after coming under attack.
Some protesters also threw missiles, including bricks, at approaching Gardaí.
A security officer was injured earlier and was taken to hospital.
Members of the Gardaí and Public Order Unit chasing people on the street in Coolock as a bus passes by, 15-7-24. Image: Eamonn Farrell/© RollingNews.ieThe Taoiseach said he has been kept up-to-date on Coolock throughout the day.
"The scenes we have witnessed in Coolock today are reprehensible," he said.
"The Minister for Justice has briefed me throughout the day and the law will be implemented.
"No person has a right to burn cars, damage property, or attack members of An Garda Síochána and emergency services.
"These actions are criminal and are designed to sow fear and division. We should not accept them being legitimised in any way by describing them as 'protest'".
Fireworks and rocks thrown at members of the Gardaí and Public Order Unit in Coolock, 15-7-24. Image: Eamonn Farrell/© RollingNews.ieMr Harris also thanked Gardaí for "extraordinary professionalism".
"I want to thank An Garda Síochána, who have come under attack today," he said.
"They have shown extraordinary professionalism.
"A security guard was attacked for simply doing his job. He and his family are in my thoughts and I hope he makes a speedy recovery," he added.
Minister for Justice Helen McEntee on her way into Cabinet at Government Buildings, 5-6-24. Image: Leon Farrell / © RollingNews.ieJustice Minister Helen McEntee also criticised the "thuggish criminal behaviour".
"I am appalled at the violent scenes in Coolock today," she said.
"This is thuggish criminal behaviour and has no place in our society.
"The Garda Commissioner has kept me updated throughout the day and he has assured me that everything will be done to bring those responsible to justice."
Minister McEntee said Gardaí have been out in force.
"Arson and assaults are reprehensible and serious crimes," she said.
"They will be fully investigated and those involved will be held to account for their actions.
"This is not protest. What we have seen today does not represent the decent communities of Coolock and surrounding areas."
Minister McEntee said Gardaí will "continue to manage the situation".
Several people are appearing before a special sitting of the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin this evening.
