Jim O'Callaghan issues statement on Waterford arson attack

The Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan, has issued a statement on the fatal fire that occurred in Waterford City in the early hours of the morning.

Emergency services were alerted to the scene of a fire at a house in the Birchwood Avenue area of the city around 5 am this morning. It was established that the fire resulted in the deaths of four people, two adults and two children, and a further two children hospitalised.

Since then, Gardai confirmed that they have launched a murder investigation into the fire, believing that the fire was started deliberately.

Jim O’Callaghan said: “I strongly condemn the harrowing attack in Waterford early this morning which has resulted in the loss of four lives, including two children.

“I want to express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the bereaved. My thoughts are also with the two young children in hospital.

“This shocking event has had a very significant impact not just on the people of Waterford but on the whole country.

There is no place in a civilised society for such a heinous act of violence. I have spoken with the Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly, who has assured me that a murder investigation, supported by the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, is underway.

“I am confident those responsible for this brutal and heinous act will be brought to justice to face the full rigour of the law. I join An Garda Síochána in appealing to anyone with information to come forward.”