An Irish politician has been assaulted after his car was stopped in traffic in central #Dublin.

Irish broadcaster RTÉ is reporting that independent TD Michael Healy-Rae was attacked on Wednesday afternoon.

Healy-Rae was stopped at a traffic light when a passerby walked over to the open car window and punched him in the face, BBC News NI understands.

The politician is currently in St Vincent's University Hospital recovering from his injuries.

He had been in Leinster House earlier and was on his way home when the incident occurred.

In a post on social media, Tánaiste (Irish deputy PM) Simon Harris said he was "very concerned" by news of the assault on the Kerry TD.

"I've spoken to Michael and sent him my best wishes for a full recovery.

"There is absolutely no place for violence or intimidation in our democracy. Every citizen, including every public representative, has the right to go about their work and their life without fear.

"I also want to commend those who responded to the incident."

Gardai (Irish police) have been contacted for a response.

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