An English tourist is in a critical condition after being kicked during a confrontation in Temple Bar in Dublin.
The man, in his 40s, was taken to Beaumont Hospital with serious head injuries.
The incident occurred at about 12.30am on Thursday in the Temple Bar Square area of the popular tourist haunt.
It is understood the victim had been refused entry to the Quays Bar but managed to gain entry through another door. He was ejected by staff and was in an agitated state on the street, according to witnesses.
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It is believed the man became involved in a confrontation with another male and was struck with a kick causing him to fall to the ground.
Gardaí are attempting to establish if he suffered his injuries from the kick or the fall to the ground.
The suspect has yet to be identified but gardaí are confident of progress in the case due to the large number of CCTV cameras in the area.
The scene was preserved and a technical examination has been completed.
Gardaí are appealing to anyone with information or who may have video footage to contact them. Investigations are ongoing.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan said he has had been briefed on a “serious incident that occurred overnight in Dublin”.
He said he would not comment further while a Garda investigation was under way other than to wish the injured man a “full recovery” and to appeal for any witnesses to assist gardaí.
