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25th Nov 2018

Gardaí investigating fire in Donegal hotel due to be used as Direct Provision centre

Alan Loughnane

cash in transit robbery

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has called the fire an “arson attack”.

Gardaí in Donegal are investigating a fire at a hotel in Donegal where 100 asylum seekers were meant to live in from next week.

One man was injured in the fire and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Justice Minster Charlie Flanagan has condemned what he called an “arson attack” on the Caiseal Mara Hotel in Moville.

“I condemn this attack and those behind it in the strongest possible terms,” Flanagan said.

“This was a despicable incident and could have led to very serious tragedy.

“I send my best wishes for a full recovery to the injured person and all those impacted by the fire. I am urging anyone with any information with regard to this fire to contact the Gardaí.”

Local firefighters rushed to the scene and managed to bring the blaze under control but it’s understood there was substantial damage caused to the hotel.

The hotel was due to become a Direct Provision centre over the next few weeks, with a group of people due to arrive there next week.

Gardaí in Buncrana are investigating all circumstances surrounding the fire and are appealing for witnesses, anyone with information or anyone that was in the area that may have seen suspicious activity on Foyle Street to come forward.

They can contact Buncrana Garda Station on (074) 9320540 the Garda Confidential Line or any Garda Station.

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