Five people, including three children, have been rushed to hospital after being attacked in Dublin city centre.

The stabbing attack occurred on Parnell Square East shortly after 1.30pm.

Irish police said they are following a “definite line of inquiry” following the serious incident.

A Garda spokesperson added that they are not looking for any other person at this time.

The area has been cordoned off as officers remain at the scene.

An adult female is being treated for serious injuries and an adult male for less serious injuries.

A Garda spokesperson said: “Five casualties have been taken to various hospitals in the Dublin region.

“The casualties include an adult male, an adult female and three young children.

“One child, a girl, has sustained serious injuries, the other two children are being treated for less serious injuries.

“An Garda Siochana is in contact with parents of all three injured children.”