A DUBLIN BUS driver was assaulted in what is understood to have been a racial attack while working on Parnell Street in the city centre earlier this week.

On Tuesday afternoon, an incident involving three individuals and the driver was reported to gardaí.

One of the suspects was apprehended by another Dublin Bus employee and arrested by gardaí who arrived on scene a short time later. The suspect was taken to the Store Street station, where he was later charged and bailed.

A spokesperson for Dublin Bus told TheJournal.ie that the driver was taken to the Mater Hospital but his condition is not serious. As is usual practice, he will not return to work until he has recuperated.

An investigation into the incident has started at the company, which is examining CCTV footage from the area.

It is understood there was a racial element to the attack. Earlier this year, Dublin Bus kicked off a high-profile anti-racism campaign. Since its March launch, the Immigrant Council of Ireland says it is responding to about five serious incidents per week.

“There is no acceptable level of racism,” said a spokesperson. “It is vital that this message goes out loud and clear.

The council believes the increase in figures since the information campaign began confirms its “long-held view that racism in Ireland is under-reported” with both victims and witnesses reluctant to come forward.

“The ICI is committed to continuing working with our partners in public transport, including Dublin Bus, Dublin City Council and the Gardaí to ensure a robust and united response to racism wherever it occurs,” added the spokesperson.

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