Garda probe after protesters disrupt Simon Harris election canvass in Mayo

A Government spokesman said a garda was also hit during scenes of “thuggery”.

Gardaí in Mayo are investigating all the circumstances of events

A Garda spokesman said: “Gardaí in Mayo are investigating all the circumstances of events which occurred in Westport, Co Mayo, yesterday, 2nd June 2024.

“An Garda Síochána has no further comment at this time.”

Speaking on Sunday, Mr Harris said he would not be deterred from campaigning.

However, he went on to raise concerns about what he characterised as a growing “toxicity in politics and public life that has been fuelled by a small number of people”.

Some things are protest and some things are thuggery

Mr Harris added: “I don’t think it should be ignored. I think it should be called out.

“It’s why I bristle when people talk about protest because some things are protest and some things are thuggery, and I understand the difference and so do most people in this country and they should never be conflated.

“But I think we should continue to amplify the fact that most people in this country are decent.”

While out canvassing on Sunday, Mr Harris was also interrupted by the family of teacher Enoch Burke who remains in prison for contempt of court.

The group followed the Taoiseach and European candidate Maria Walsh, shouting at them as they visited businesses and met locals.