'Families and babies who have fled war were targeted': Arson attack on IPAS centre condemned

James Cox

The Irish Refugee Council is condemning "in the strongest possible terms the horrific arson attack on people seeking protection in Drogheda".

Nick Henderson, chief executive of the Irish Refugee Council, said: "The Irish Refugee Council condemns in the strongest possible terms the horrific arson attack on people seeking protection. Families, children, and babies who have fled war and persecution targeted as they tried to rebuild their lives in safety.

"If not for the Fire Service, this could have been even more serious. Those responsible are a tiny minority and do not reflect the proud and welcoming spirit and people of the Drogheda community. This appalling incident is another salient reminder of the need for strong leadership — both locally and nationally — to stand against hatred and uphold compassion and  solidarity."

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” at the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centre.