Four children, including a baby, were among five people rescued from the top floor of an IPAS centre in Drogheda, after fireworks were thrown into the building causing a fire.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan has condemned the incident, which occurred at the building housing International Protection applicants, at around 8pm yesterday.
Five people – four children and an adult – were rescued from the top floor of the building.
Gardaà say that all aspects of the fire are being examined, but arson has not been ruled out.
A number of people were brought Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda, following the incident, but it is understood that none had serious injuries.
A total of 28 people were living at the centre at the time of the blaze.
In a statement, Minister O’Callaghan described the incident as a “terrifying ordeal for the women and children living there, a number of whom were taken to hospital.
“Alternative accommodation is now being sourced for the residents affected.
“A full garda investigation into this arson attack is under way. There will be serious consequences for those responsible.”
Three fire tenders dealt with the fire, which caused minor damage, and remained at the scene for two hours.
Gardaà are carrying out a technical examination of the scene today, the results of which will determine the course of their investigation.