POLL OF THE DAY: Are the Ireland protests a sign of things to come in the UK? - YOUR VERDICT

Tensions flared on Monday morning after preparations were made to start work at the building.

Anti-immigration protesters damaged Garda cars, throwing missiles at the police officers.

Protesters gathered, some with their faces covered, and fires were lit.

Videos and pictures posted on social media showed a digger in flames.

The violence escalated as bricks and fireworks were thrown at officers and firefighters, while bins and mattresses were set alight.

A gardai spokesman said officers would remain at the scene overnight, adding: "Over 200 members of An Garda Siochana were deployed in the operation, including frontline uniformed Gardai, supported by public order gardai.

"Gardai were subjected to both verbal and physical abuse throughout the day, which escalated into rocks, fireworks and other objects being launched towards them. A number of fires were lit and official Garda vehicles seriously damaged.

"As the situation intensified, members of An Garda Siochana used force to defend themselves as part of an escalated response to the situation. Assistance was provided by members of An Garda Siochana public order unit and the Garda air support unit.

"The use of force included the use of incapacitant spray and deployment of public order gardai in public order helmets and shields. An Garda Siochana is unaware of any injuries at this time."

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris condemned the scenes as "unacceptable", adding it had been a "difficult policing day".

An overwhelming majority of GB News members who voted in the poll agree that the protests in Ireland are a sign of things to come in the UK, with 95 per cent voting in favour.

On the other hand just three per cent disagreed, while two per cent were unsure.