Protest in support of Gaza flotilla blocks Dublin Port entrance and causes major traffic disruption

"Lines of trucks and cars are currently held up at Dublin port as representatives from Trinity College Dublin's Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Committee, along with other protesters for Palestine, block the entrance and exit to the port. Gardaí are currently holding position between the protesters and disgruntled truck drivers during rush hour traffic in Dublin. Traffic is very heavy in the East Wall, north east inner city and the Dublin Port surrounds."

"The crowd chanting "Free Free Palestine" marched from the city centre to the port earlier this afternoon. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald spoke at the rally held in the city earlier today along with former president of Trinity Student Union, Jenny Maguire. Maguire told the Irish Independent that the crowd intend to remain blocking the port "for as long as it takes" with the crowd protesting alongside various groups across Europe in solidarity with Gaza flotilla."

"At least 14 Irish citizens who were among the 500 or so people taking part in the flotilla of 40 boats have been detained by Israeli soldiers after they intercepted the flotilla in international waters last night. A number of trucks drivers at Dublin Port today have said they have been held up in line since 2.30pm. One truck driver said his horses who have been travelling 36 hours are now agitated with the traffic now at a standstill."

Protesters, including members of Trinity's Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Committee and other pro-Palestine activists, are blocking the entrance and exit to Dublin Port, causing long lines of trucks and cars. Gardaí are positioned between protesters and truck drivers during rush-hour while traffic remains heavy around the port. The crowd marched from the city centre chanting "Free Free Palestine" and heard speeches including Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald. Organisers intend to remain blocking the port "for as long as it takes" in solidarity with a Gaza flotilla. At least 14 Irish citizens were detained after the flotilla was intercepted in international waters. Several drivers report being held up since 2.30pm, with one saying horses travelling 36 hours have become agitated.

Read at Irish Independent