A huge fire broke out at a hotel in Galway, Ireland, on Sunday night, hours after anti-immigration protesters clashed with police outside the same building. The fire destroyed part of the hotel and damaged several nearby properties. No one was injured in the blaze, but some residents were evacuated as a precaution.
The hotel, which was hosting asylum seekers from various countries, had been the target of protests by far-right groups who opposed the presence of migrants in Ireland.
The protesters had gathered outside the hotel on Saturday afternoon and evening, waving banners and chanting slogans such as “No to illegal immigration” and “End the invasion”. They also threw stones and bottles at police officers who tried to disperse them.
The situation escalated on Sunday night when a group of protesters managed to break into the hotel and set fire to a room. The flames quickly spread to other parts of the building and neighbouring houses. The fire brigade arrived at the scene shortly after 10 pm and battled to contain the blaze for over an hour. They used water cannons and hoses to douse the fire and prevent it from spreading further.
According to Express, The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but police suspect that it may have been started deliberately by someone inside or outside the hotel. No arrests have been made so far, but police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward.
The hotel manager said that he was shocked and saddened by what happened. He said that he had been running the hotel for over 20 years and had never experienced anything like this before. He said that he welcomed asylum seekers from all over the world who were seeking safety and protection in Ireland. He said that they were peaceful and respectful guests who had paid their bills on time.
He also thanked the police for their quick response and assistance in dealing with the fire. He said that he hoped that no one would be hurt or traumatized by this incident.
The Irish government has condemned the violence against asylum seekers and expressed its solidarity with them. The Minister for Justice said that Ireland was committed to upholding its humanitarian values and obligations under international law. He said that Ireland would continue to provide support and assistance to asylum seekers who were fleeing persecution, violence, or human rights violations in their home countries.
He also urged people not to be influenced by extremist views or groups that spread hatred or fear towards migrants or refugees. He said that Ireland was a diverse and inclusive society that welcomed people from different backgrounds and cultures.
He added that anyone who engaged in illegal or violent activities against asylum seekers would face serious consequences under Irish law.
