Gardaí probe assault on man (70s) near proposed asylum seeker property in Clare

They said they are "making enquiries" into the incident after the pensioner was admitted to University Hospital Limerick for injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening.

It has been reported that the man was attacked after he stopped his car and spoke to a group of people in the town near a property which is rumoured may soon be used to house international protection applicants.

Gardaí are waiting to interview the victim but a formal complaint has not been made.

Theresa O'Donohoe, a member of Clare Solidarity Network, told RTE: "We believe most people in Clare are compassionate and want to help those fleeing persecution and war.

"Unfortunately, their voices have been drowned out and intimidated by those seeking to block asylum seekers from coming to the area."