'Three people including a child are injured after knifeman attacks group of young people in Dublin'

At least three children have been attacked by a man armed with a knife near a school in Dublin city centre, according to reports in Ireland.

The attack unfolded shortly after 1pm local time, near Parnell Square on Irish capital's north side. Early reports suggest the man tried to attack a number of young people, including children, and that passersby intervened, the Irish Times said.

Three children were injured and at least two have been taken to hospital with suspected stab wounds, according to Irish broadcaster RTE. 

A suspect has been arrested, the Irish Independent said. The man, who is yet to be identified, was treated at the scene for injuries, reports said.

According to The Irish Times, several people intervened and disarmed the man. Witnesses said they saw a large knife being taken from the suspect and thrown under trees opposite Rotunda Hospital, which sits in the square.

A police spokesperson said they were responding to a 'serious incident'. 

'An Garda Síochána are currently at the scene of a serious incident on Parnell Square East and are being assisted [by] other emergency services,' they said. 'At this early stage, An Garda Síochána is not in a position to confirm any further details.' 

Pictures shared online showed ambulances and other emergency vehicles parked around Parnell Square, on Parnell Square East.

A number of education facilities are situated around the square, which also has a hospital in the middle of it. The concentration of emergency service vehicles appeared to be outside Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire, a primary school. 

RTE reported that officials were still trying to determine what happened and had sealed off the area. All lanes on the road have been closed.

This is a breaking news story. More to follow...