Pub burned down over 'claims it was going to house immigrants' amid police probe

01 January 2024 , 12:24

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Police have launched an investigation into the fire which erupted on the weekend (Image: DubFireBrigade/Twitter)

An old pub situated next to family homes was burned down following claims it was going to house immigrants.

Police and firefighters rushed to the vacant property in Thorncastle Street, Ringsend in Dublin shortly before 2am on Sunday. Six fire engines attended the "frightening" incident which happened just a month after protests took place over speculation on what the venue would be used for.

Luckily, no one was injured during the blaze. Dublin Fire Brigade tweeted: "Overnight, firefighters were called to a vacant premises on fire in Ringsend. 6 Fire engines attended including a turntable ladder to fight the fire from above. Smoke drifted across the area. Thanks to Dublin City Council who increased the water supply to the ground. No injuries have been reported."

Firefighters rushed to the 'devastating' blaze in Dublin on Sunday (DubFireBrigade/Twitter)

Local politician Chris Andrews said the fire was "devastating" for residents and nearby businesses. He told Dublin Live: "There were families living and sleeping next to it, to the rear, and it must have been frightening for them. Also, it’s devastating for the business who will be affected by this. The Gardai will have to investigate the cause of this but it is frightening for local businesses and residents."

Green Party Councillor Claire Byrne said the property was going to be used to support local families. She said the blaze was "unbelievably sad to see" and wrote on Twitter: "The building was to be used by the Dublin Region Homeless Executive as a family hub. Thanks to Dublin Fire Brigade and Dublin City Council for keeping it under control & the people of Ringsend safe."

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Last month, demonstrations took place outside the building over speculation it was due to be used to house asylum seekers. The Department of Integration told RTE it had no plans to use the building in that way. A Garda spokesperson said the force “is aware of a significant volume of misinformation, disinformation and rumour in relation to the use or proposed use of the building”.

Anyone with information has been asked to contact Irishtown Garda Station 01 6669600 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.

Monica Charsley