Kenneth Fox
Seven units of Dublin Fire Brigade are fighting a blaze at a collection of vacant buildings in Brittas, County Dublin.
They were called to the scene at 7am this morning, and operations are still continuing.
A turntable ladder and emergency tender are also present at the site on 'Crooksling', off the Blessington Road.
Emergency services say there are traffic restrictions on the N81, due to the position of hose lines being used to tackle the fire.
Rumours had previously circulated that it was earmarked for accommodating asylum seekers.
Firefighters were called at 7am to vacant buildings alight at Crooksling off the Blessington Road
7️⃣ Seven fire engines including a turntable ladder and emergency tender were sent to the scene
🛣️ Traffic restrictions on the #N81 due to hose lines
🚒 Operations are continuing pic.twitter.com/4srFwgqocc— Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) February 4, 2024
In recent months, there has been a series of suspected arson attempts at properties earmarked for housing asylum seekers or refugees, or properties that were rumoured for such use.
Speaking on the incident, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said: "I am very concerned to learn about the fire at a former nursing home in Crooksling. In recent weeks there have been disturbing reports of suspected criminal damage at properties around the country.
"There is never any justification for violence, arson or vandalism in our Republic. Garda investigations are underway into the incident in Crooksling.
“Arson is a serious crime punishable by up to ten years in prison. It is deeply ironic that some of those who try to link migration with crime engage in serious criminal activity themselves.
“I want to assure people that we have a rules-based system immigration system. Applications for international protection are now being processed in record time.
"All applicants are registered, fingerprinted, checked against certain databases, and the circumstances surrounding their request for protection are examined thoroughly. We aim to treat them with dignity and respect while their applications are considered."
