Protester detained after incident involving Minister’s car

A local protester has been arrested in Athlone after the windscreen of Minister Phil Hogan’s car was reported to be damaged this afternoon.

The incident happened after 3pm in the car park at the rear of Athlone Civic Centre as the Environment Minister was a leaving a function in Athlone Library.

A Department spokesperson confirmed to the Westmeath Independent that an incident took place as the Ministerial car was leaving the car park and was surrounded by protesters. The windscreen was allegedly damaged during the altercation.

Gardai said a man in his 20s was arrested a short time later in relation to an alleged incident of criminal damage involving the Minister’s car.

It’s alleged that the front windscreen of the car was damaged.

At the time of writing, he is being held in Athlone Garda Station for questioning.

The protester is reported to have suffered hand and foot injuries.