Four people, including two children, have died in a house fire in Waterford in a suspected Molotov cocktail attack. Two other children were seriously injured in the blaze at the property on Birchwood Estate, which broke out at around 5am on Tuesday.
Political reaction
Taoiseach Micheal Martin described it as a 'deeply disturbing situation', with a petrol bomb suspected as the cause, according to Liberal.ie. He said: 'Our thoughts and prayers are with anybody who has lost their lives and all who are affected.'
Martin added: 'We thank the first responders who are at the scene. We say to everyone to give space to the first responders, to the Gardaí to deal with what clearly is a very worrying and deeply disturbing situation.'
Community in shock
Minister of State John Cummins said Waterford has been plunged into 'utter devastation and sadness'. He commented: 'My deepest sympathies go to the loved ones of those who have lost their lives, their friends, neighbours and the wider community.'
Cummins also paid tribute to emergency services personnel, saying: 'I would also like to pay tribute to the emergency services personnel who have been attending what can only be described as a horrific scene.'
