'Devastating to witness': Homes damaged following fire in Cork town

A number of houses have been damaged following a fire in Carrigaline this afternoon.

At least two homes were impacted by the fire, which occurred at the Hillview estate on the Upper Kilmoney area of the town. No injuries were reported.

Cork County Fire units from Carrigaline, Crosshaven, Midleton and also Cork City Fire Service attended the scene.

Chief fire officer at Carrigaline Station Chris Gledhill told The Echo they were called to the scene of an outdoor fire at 12.36pm today, with assistance called for from Crosshaven Fire Service shortly afterwards.

Fire crews from Midleton and the Cork City Fire Service were also called for to provide resources and water tankers.

Mr Gledhill said: “All crews here put in serious, serious work to fight this fire with the elements of the wind and lack of water to extinguish this fire.” 

Mr Gledhill added that the fire is now under control, with units from Carrigaline and Crosshaven remaining on the scene on Sunday evening to make sure all the fire has been fully extinguished.

Speaking to The Echo about the fire, Carrigaline based County Councillor, Jack White of Fine Gael said: 

“My thoughts are with all those affected by the horrendous fire in Hillview, Carrigaline today. Thank you to the Emergency Services who have responded so professionally in very difficult circumstances.” 

Carrigaline based Fine Gael Councillor Úna McCarthy, who was at the scene of the fire earlier today, added: “It was devastating to witness the fire at Hillview, Carrigaline, today. The wind directions made conditions extremely difficult to contain and my thoughts are with the families affected.

“I want to pay tribute to the firefighters from Carrigaline, Crosshaven, Midleton, and Cork City, whose bravery prevented the fire from reaching a third home.

"I have no doubt that the Hillview and Carrigaline communities will rally together to support the families during this difficult time.” 

Cork South–Central Fianna Fáil TD Seamus McGrath added: “Thanks to Carrigaline Fire & Rescue and other crews for attending to the serious fire in Carrigaline earlier today.

“Thankfully, it seems that there were no injuries involved, but regrettably significant damage to the properties. My thoughts are with those impacted with their homes damaged.

“Thanks again to all the emergency services involved.”