Michael Healy-Rae is returning to Kerry after being discharged from hospital following a violent assault in Dublin.
The Independent TD was attacked yesterday afternoon when his car was stopped in traffic on Cork Street.
The incident happened shortly after 4pm, when a lone man assaulted the Kerry politician.
Gardaí were quickly at the scene and brought Mr Healy-Rae to Kevin Street Garda Station, where an ambulance was arranged.
He was later taken to St Vincent’s University Hospital for treatment.
Mr Healy-Rae suffered a head wound which required stitches, but he was discharged just before 9pm.
His family has said he planned to make his way back to Kerry as soon as possible.
Mr Healy-Rae had spent time in Leinster House earlier in the day and was travelling home when he was attacked.
There have been no arrests so far, with Gardaí continuing to make enquiries.
Gardaí are asking anyone who witnessed the assault, or anyone with relevant camera footage from Cork Street at around the time of the incident, to contact them.
Kevin Street Garda Station can be contacted on 01 666 9400. Information can also be passed to the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
The assault has prompted widespread condemnation from political figures.
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Photo credit: Shutterstock
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply shocked by the incident and had sent his best wishes to Mr Healy-Rae and his family.
He said elected representatives must be able to carry out their work without facing violence or abuse.
Tánaiste Simon Harris said he had spoken directly to Mr Healy-Rae and wished him a full recovery.
He said there was “absolutely no place for violence or intimidation in our democracy”, adding that every citizen should be able to go about their work and daily life without fear.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan also condemned the incident, describing it as an “attack on democracy”.
He said: “Any attack upon a member of the Oireachtas is an attack on democracy, and we should all resolutely stand together in this House in condemning any such attacks.”
Mr Healy-Rae’s brother, Danny Healy-Rae, spoke about the assault in the Dáil.
The fellow Kerry TD became visibly emotional as he described the attack on his brother as “just not on”.
He said Mr Healy-Rae had been going about his work when he was stopped on the road and attacked.
“Them things shouldn’t happen to public representatives. We get elected to help the people,” he said.
Danny Healy-Rae also said politicians cannot please everyone but should be able to carry out their work without being targeted because of their views.
Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy said she was “deeply shocked” by the news and had contacted Mr Healy-Rae.
She said she was reassured to hear that he was in good spirits and wished him a full and speedy recovery.
“As Ceann Comhairle, I condemn violence against any elected representative. My thoughts are with Michael and his family,” she said.
Independent TD Mattie McGrath also sent his best wishes to Mr Healy-Rae, describing him as a “hardworking deputy”.
He said the incident was a reminder of the need to condemn violence against politicians.
Gardaí are continuing their investigation and are appealing for anyone with information or relevant footage to come forward.
