Two children of an asylum-seeker were in Southern Health Board care last night after being taken from premises in Kerry by board staff on Wednesday.
There was an angry confrontation when board officials attempted to remove the children from the premises.
Several gardai accompanied the officials, and more were called to restore order.
Feelings were still running high yesterday among one group of asylum-seekers following the confrontation, which took place at lunchtime on Wednesday between a group of asylum-seekers, gardai and board officials.
The mother of the children is not in the State, Garda sources said.
Gardai were supporting Southern Health Board staff in the enforcement of an emergency care order issued by a court when some of those staying at the premises became upset at the removal of the children.
A problem with communication is said to have exacerbated the situation.
No interpreters or officials from the asylum support or local support services were present while the children were being taken into custody, sources said.
The Southern Health Board refused to comment on this. However, it confirmed that board staff were at the hotel on "official business" and that gardai were also present.
Support services in the Tralee area were yesterday meeting the asylum-seekers in an attempt to calm the situation.