The building in Georges Street was seriously damaged and 28 people have now been left homeless as a result.
Gardaí are investigating the incident and Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan, said there will be “serious consequences” for the perpetrators.
Firemen rescued the five people, including three children under the age of 10, from the top floor of the building.
“I condemn the criminal attack on a building accommodating people applying for international protection in Drogheda last night.
“Fireworks were thrown into the building, causing a fire and putting lives at risk. This was 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 underway. There will be serious consequences for those responsible,” Minister O’Callaghan said.
Gardaí at the scene of the fire at the IPAS Centre on Georges Street, Drogheda. Photo: Steve Humphreys
Taoiseach Micheál Martin condemned “the deeply disturbing incident” at the IPAS centre.
“To put vulnerable families, including young children, at risk is abhorrent and has no place in our society. Our thoughts are with those affected by this horrifying experience,” Mr Martin said.
Louth County Council officials informed local councillors of the incident which occurred around 8.15pm
The scene has now been preserved for a technical examination.
Gardaí in Drogheda are appealing for information following the fire.
“The occupants of the property were safely evacuated and a number were taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital for medical assessment,” a garda spokesperson said.
“The scene has been technically examined and a Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) has been appointed to lead the investigation from the incident room at Drogheda Garda Station.
“Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward. In addition, they are appealing for those with camera footage from the area at the time to make contact.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Drogheda Garda Station on 041 9874200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station”.
It is understood that officers will examine CCTV footage from the area which is near the town centre.
A number of the people who were in the building were taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital to be treated, but no serious injuries were reported.
Drogheda Labour councillor Pio Smith said 28 people are now homeless and Louth County Council is looking for urgent accommodation for them.
“The fire at the IPAS accommodation was a very traumatic event for the residents living there and a great shock to all of us living in the town,” he said. “The fact that Gardaí are not ruling out arson makes it all the more sinister.
“I was very inspired by Drogheda people contacting me offering help and accommodation for the displaced residents. That’s the Drogheda I know, fantastic people.”
The building suffered extensive damage. Photo: Steve Humphreys.
Today’s News in 90 Seconds – Saturday November 1
Labour TD for Louth, Ged Nash, said the incident is “chilling and sinister”.
“I want to commend the swift and professional actions of the Fire Service and An Garda Siochána in evacuating to safety families living in a residence in Drogheda that is used to provide accommodation for applicants for international protection.
“That arson is the working assumption of the authorities is chilling and sinister.
“Let’s be clear. Small babies were hospitalised overnight. The deaths of children, of families, was avoided last night thanks to the response of the Fire Service and Gardai.
“If this fire occurred only a matter of hours later, we could in all probability be dealing with an unspeakable catastrophe this morning.
“I welcome the Minister for Justice’s strong condemnation of what he has described in a statement as a ‘criminal attack’,” Deputy Nash said.
The Mayor of Drogheda councillor Michelle Hall said: “The people living in IPAS centres are human beings – families , parents, children – seeking safety and a better life.
“Let’s not give attention to content that fuels hate or misinformation. Instead let’s choose empathy, truth and solidarity.”
She asked people not to jump to conclusions on social media and to let the authorities investigate the incident and get to the truth.
Councillor Robert Nash praised the swift response of the fire service, who rescued five people from the top floor of the building. “Our thoughts go out to all people affected by tonight’s fire and huge thanks to Louth Fire Service for their swift response,” he said.
