Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae was hospitalised after being punched through the open window of his car while stopped in traffic in Dublin's south inner city, in what has been described as a "totally unprovoked" attack. The incident, which occurred as he drove home to Kerry from Leinster House, has been widely condemned by senior political figures, with the Taoiseach, the Ceann Comhairle and the Justice Minister all calling it an attack on democracy and stressing that elected representatives must be able to work free from violence and intimidation.

The assault happened near Cork Street, close to the Coombe area, with security sources suggesting the attacker may have recognised Healy-Rae from the distinctive "Healy-Rae" branding on his car. He suffered cuts inside his mouth requiring stitches, and gardaí took him to Kevin Street Garda Station before an ambulance brought him to St Vincent's Hospital. A video also circulated on social media showing him being jeered by an onlooker as he was led from the vehicle, while his brother, fellow TD Danny Healy-Rae, told the Dáil the attack was unfair given his brother could not defend himself through the car window.