Irish politician injured after assault in Dublin

An Irish politician has been assaulted after his car was stopped in traffic in central Dublin.

Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae was attacked by a lone man after 16:00 local time on Wednesday afternoon.

Healy-Rae was stopped at a traffic light on Cork Street when a passerby walked over to the open car window and punched him in the face.

The politician has been released from St Vincent's University Hospital where he received treatment for his injuries.

Healy-Rae was discharged just before 21:00, having needed stitches to a head wound, according to Irish broadcaster RTÉ.

He had been in Leinster House earlier and was on his way home when the incident occurred.

Gardaí (Irish police) said the injured man first received medical treatment at Kevin Street Station but his injuries are not life-threatening.

They have appealed to anyone with camera footage to come forward.

Healy-Rae's brother, Danny, who is also a Kerry TD, confirmed his brother was punched through an open window.

He added that he hopes his brother recovers and it was something that is "hurting me as much as anyone else".

"Them things shouldn't happen to public representatives," he said. "We get elected to help the people and not to hurt them."

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was shocked by the assault.

"I have sent my best regards to Michael and his family this evening and wished him a full recovery from his injuries," he said.

"It is worth repeating. Violence has no place in a democracy, and those elected to represent the people must be allowed to do their work without fear of abuse or assault."

In a post on social media, Tánaiste (Irish deputy PM) Simon Harris said he was "very concerned" by news of the assault on the Kerry TD.

"I've spoken to Michael and sent him my best wishes for a full recovery.

"There is absolutely no place for violence or intimidation in our democracy. Every citizen, including every public representative, has the right to go about their work and their life without fear.

"I also want to commend those who responded to the incident."