Drogheda ( Parliament Politics Magazine) A fire broke out at an IPAS centre in Drogheda, County Louth, after fireworks were thrown into the building, trapping residents inside. Firefighters rescued four children and one adult. Gardaí are investigating possible arson, while leaders and locals condemned the attack as cruel and against Irish values.
A horrific incident shook the town of Drogheda last night when fireworks were thrown into an International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centre, sparking a fire that trapped several residents inside. Among those rescued from the burning building were four children, including a baby, and one adult.
The attack occurred around 8 p.m. on Friday evening, when a group reportedly threw fireworks into the premises that houses asylum seekers. Panic quickly spread as flames and smoke filled the upper floors of the centre. Emergency services were immediately alerted, and firefighters rushed to the scene.
According to Gardaí, a total of five people — four young children and one adult — were rescued from the top floor. Several residents were taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for medical checks, but authorities confirmed that no one suffered life-threatening injuries.
At the time of the fire, 28 people were living in the IPAS centre. Gardaí have launched a full investigation into the incident, and while inquiries are ongoing, arson has not been ruled out.
“A Terrifying Ordeal”
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “a terrifying ordeal for the women and children living there.” He expressed deep concern for the victims, many of whom were left shaken and displaced after the blaze.
“Alternative accommodation is now being sourced for the residents affected,” O’Callaghan said in a statement. “A full Garda investigation into this arson attack is under way. There will be serious consequences for those responsible.”
The minister stressed that targeting vulnerable people seeking refuge in Ireland is both unacceptable and contrary to Irish values. He called for calm and compassion as authorities work to ensure the safety of all those living in temporary accommodation centres.
Firefighters Battle the Blaze
Three fire engines responded swiftly to the emergency and managed to bring the blaze under control after two hours. While the fire caused minor structural damage to the building, the psychological impact on residents was significant.
A technical examination of the site began this morning, with investigators combing through the debris to determine exactly how the fireworks ignited the fire and who was responsible for the attack.
Gardaí have appealed to the public for any information, including dashcam or CCTV footage from the area around the time of the incident.
National Leaders Condemn the Attack
Taoiseach Micheál Martin also condemned the attack in strong terms while speaking in Cork earlier today. He said his thoughts were with the families and particularly with the children who endured the terrifying experience.
“The Government is deeply concerned about the wider rise in violence and assaults on people because of their ethnicity and background,” the Taoiseach said. “Such actions are unacceptable in Ireland and are repugnant to the values of the vast majority of Irish people.”
Mr. Martin noted that while migration remains a topic of national discussion, such incidents must not shape public attitudes toward those seeking protection.
“There has been about a 40% decrease this year in the number of people seeking asylum,” he said. “We do need a fair and robust system, and we have accelerated both the initial and appeals processes. But this must be accompanied by empathy and respect for human dignity.”
Local Shock and Sorrow
The incident has left the community of Drogheda deeply shaken. Local resident Kirsty Millne, who has lived in the town for nearly four decades, expressed heartbreak over the attack.
“Poor families. The kids. How can anyone just be so cruel? It’s very sad,” she said. “Everyone deserves to have a safe home, no matter what country you come from.”
Millne said that Drogheda has always been a welcoming town and that such acts of hatred do not represent the spirit of the community.
“Irish People Are Known for Compassion”
Mayor of Drogheda Cllr Michelle Hall also condemned the attack, calling for unity and understanding during this tense time.
“Obviously we feel the frustration of everybody, but that doesn’t mean we target vulnerable people in our society,” she said. “Irish people are known for compassion. We were welcomed in other countries during our difficult times, and we must extend that same compassion now.”
The mayor emphasized that criticism of the asylum system should not translate into hostility toward those who rely on it. “We can be angry with the system,” she said, “but we shouldn’t be targeting the people.”
Ongoing Investigation
Gardaí confirmed that all aspects of the fire are being examined. They are treating the scene as a possible case of arson and are working to identify those involved. Investigators are expected to review local surveillance footage and interview witnesses who may have seen suspicious activity near the IPAS centre on Friday evening.
Authorities are also in contact with local social services to arrange emergency accommodation and psychological support for the displaced residents. The Department of Justice is coordinating efforts to ensure their immediate safety and welfare.
A Growing Concern
The attack in Drogheda comes amid growing concerns over a rise in anti-immigrant sentiment across Ireland. Over the past year, several accommodation centres housing asylum seekers have been targeted by vandalism, arson, and intimidation.
Advocates for refugees and asylum seekers have urged the government to take stronger action against hate crimes and misinformation spreading online about migrants.
“This attack is not just an isolated incident,” said one community activist. “It’s part of a disturbing trend that must be stopped before it costs lives. Ireland has a proud history of compassion and hospitality — we cannot allow hate to destroy that.”
The Aftermath
By Saturday morning, the smell of smoke still lingered near the IPAS centre, while charred debris was visible through the broken windows. Residents who escaped the blaze stood nearby, still in shock, some clutching their children.
Emergency workers comforted the families as arrangements were made to move them to safer accommodation. Volunteers from local charities also arrived at the scene, offering blankets, food, and emotional support.
One mother, visibly shaken, said she thought she and her children would not make it out alive. “We were upstairs when we heard a loud bang,” she recalled. “There was smoke everywhere. I grabbed my baby and ran to the window. The firefighters told us to stay calm. They saved our lives.”
Calls for Tolerance and Safety
The shocking attack has reignited national conversations about racism, safety, and community responsibility. Leaders from across the political spectrum have urged citizens to reject hate and support integration efforts.
Taoiseach Martin reiterated that while discussions about migration policy are valid, violence or intimidation against vulnerable people is never justified. “We can debate policy, but hatred has no place in Ireland,” he said.
As investigations by the police continue, Gardaí remain stationed at the site to ensure public safety and prevent further disturbances. The Department of Justice has assured that all displaced residents will receive shelter, food, and medical care.
