Justice Minister warns of ‘serious consequences’ following IPAS centre fire
By Rebecca Black, PA
Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan has warned of “serious consequences” after a building accommodating people applying for international protection was attacked.
A number of people had to be rescued from the building in Drogheda, Co Louth, on Friday night.
It has been reported the people rescued included four children, one of which was a baby.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he condemned “in the strongest terms”, the “deeply disturbing incident”.
I condemn in the strongest terms the deeply disturbing incident at the IPAS centre in Drogheda. 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.— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) November 1, 2025
“To put vulnerable families, including young children, at risk is abhorrent and has no place in our society,” he posted on the social media platform X.
“Our thoughts are with those affected by this horrifying experience.”
They were rescued from the top floor of the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centre following the blaze which was reported at around 8pm.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan said fireworks were thrown into the building, causing a fire and putting lives at risk.
A full Garda investigation into this arson attack is under way. There will be serious consequences for those responsible
He condemned a “terrifying ordeal for women and children living there”, adding some were taken to hospital.
“I condemn the criminal attack on a building accommodating people applying for international protection in Drogheda last night,” he said.
“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.”
Mr O’Callaghan said alternative accommodation is now being sourced for the residents affected.
“A full Garda investigation into this arson attack is under way. There will be serious consequences for those responsible,” he added.
A Garda spokesperson said gardaí were alerted by the fire service to a blaze at the property in Drogheda at about 8.15pm on Friday.
“The occupants of the property have been evacuated, a number of whom were taken to our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for medical assessment,” they said.
“The scene has been held for a technical examination, the results of which will guide the Garda investigation.”
