Gardaí are investigating an alleged assault on a man in his 70s in Corofin, Co Clare, last night.
The attack is believed to have occurred after the man stopped his car and spoke to a group of people in the town near a property which is rumoured may soon be used to house international protection applicants.
The man was taken to University Hospital Limerick for treatment and released this evening.
Gardaí are waiting to interview the victim but a formal complaint has not been made.
Theresa O'Donohoe, a member of Clare Solidarity Network, said: "We believe most people in Clare are compassionate and want to help those fleeing persecution and war.
"Unfortunately, their voices have been drowned out and intimidated by those seeking to block asylum seekers from coming to the area."
