"The horrific attack today in Dublin City Centre was an appalling crime that has shocked us all.

"An Garda Síochána are following a definite line of inquiry and are not looking for anyone else regarding this crime.

"The perpetrator will be brought to justice.

"However, the scenes we are witnessing this evening in our city centre cannot and will not be tolerated.

"A thuggish and manipulative element must not be allowed use an appalling tragedy to wreak havoc.

"I have spoken to local TDs from all sides of the Dáil and we are of the same view.

"We will not tolerate a small number using an appalling incident to spread division. I would appeal for calm in the city centre as An Garda Síochána carry out their work – attacks on members of An Garda Síochána must be utterly condemned and will be dealt with severely.

"I am meeting the Garda Commissioner this evening to discuss the policing plan in the city tonight.

"Most importantly, we must remember the real tragedy of today and allow the investigations take their course."