Three young children have been injured in a ‘serious incident’ in Dublin city centre.

The suspected stabbing happened shortly after 1:30 pm this afternoon Gaelscoil Coláiste Mhuire on Parnell Square East.

Gardaí say a total of five people have been taken to different Dublin hospitals to be treated for their injuries.

One young girl has suffered critical injuries, while two other children are being treated for less serious injuries.

A woman is also being treated for serious injuries.

Gardaí outside Gaelscoil Coláiste Mhuire on Parnell Square East. Image: Barry Whyte/Newstalk

It is understood that a man first attacked a woman near the school before attacking the children.

He also sustained injuries and is now being treated in hospital, where gardaí are waiting to speak to him.

Gardaí say they are following a “definite line of inquiry” and are not looking for anyone else at this time.

Gardaí are in contact with the parents of all three injured children.

Gardaí and emergency services at the scene of a serious incident on Parnell Square East in Dublin, 23/11/2023. Image: Sasko Lazarov/RollingNews

All lanes of traffic have been shut down in the area with diversions in place. Drivers have been warned to expect delays.

They are being assisted at the scene by other emergency services.

Parnell Square East closed - serious incident - avoid pic.twitter.com/VzTYOeh2RH

— @naoiseomuiri (@naoiseomuiri) November 23, 2023

This afternoon, the Justice Minister expressed her "deep shock" at the “appalling attack on three innocent children and a woman in Dublin£.

Helen McEntee said she has been briefed on the situation by the Garda Commissioner.

“This attack has shocked us all and I have no doubt that the person responsible will be brought to justice,” she said.

She said her thoughts are with the injured, especially the children, and their families.

Meanwhile, the Taoiseach also expressed his shock at the incident.

Leo Varadkar paid tribute to the emergency services who were on the scene "within minutes”.

Diversions

Both Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann are advising customers diversions will be in place this evening due to the incident.

All Dublin Bus southbound routes are diverted via Denmark Street, Gardiner Street, Cathal Brugha Street, O'Connell Street before returning to their normal routes.

Bus Eireann said the 103, 109, 109Z, 111 and NX routes will be diverted inbound via Gardiner Street until further notice.