Gardai probe suspected arson attack on asylum seeker centre building site in Co Wexford

A teleporter fork-lift was burnt out during the night at the site in Rosslare, Co Wexford.

The alleged attack follows a riot and anti-immigration protests in Dublin last week.

A Molotov cocktail petrol bomb is believed to have been used in the attack.

Garda forensics teams are now gathering evidence at the site of the old Great Southern Hotel in the town.

“Last night was a sinister development when a Molotov cocktail was used, judging by the burnt out teleporter and glass around,” a source said.

The building site has been picketed by local protesters for the past 10 days objecting to the development of an International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centre.

"Gardaí have received report of an incident of criminal damage by fire that occurred at approximately 4am today, Thursday, 30th of November 2023 in Rosslare Harbour area of Co Wexford.

No injuries were reported. No arrests have been made. Investigations are ongoing,” a Garda spokesperson said.

The building of the asylum seeker centre has prompted local protests. There is no suggestion anyone involved in the protests was involved in the arson attack.

The Department of Integration has confirmed that plans are in place to transform the old Great Southern Hotel building in Rosslare Harbour into accommodation for international protection applicants.

In an email circulated among local elected representatives, it was confirmed that approximately 170 asylum seekers are set to arrive in Rosslare in the coming weeks.