Eagle-eyed Gardai prevent Ballyfermot home from being burned to the ground

By Maurice Garvey

GARDAI on the beat in Cherry Orchard prevented a house from burning to the ground after noticing smoke coming from the unoccupied property after midnight.

The Echo understands gardai were on patrol in the area at the time, and discovered smoke coming from a property on Croftwood Park.

They forced their way into the property at approximately 12.45am this morning.

After discovering nobody was in the house, the brave gardai tried to tackle the blaze.

This proved unsuccessful, but Dublin Fire Brigade were called, and two units from Dolphin’s Barn and Tallaght arrived to put the fire out.

The gardai, who are stationed in Ballyfermot, were not injured during the incident.

Speaking about the incident, Cllr. Daithí Doolan said: “The recent attacks in Cherry Orchard are wrong. They shouldn’t have happened. Those involved should stop and think of the deep damage and division they are causing to our community.

“Cherry Orchard is a great community. It is full of good people working hard to make it even better for their families and neighbours.

“Ballyfermot and Cherry Orchard need more Gardaí and we need them urgently. We have been promised an extra two Gardaí by the end of the year. This is an insult. We need an adequately staffed full time Garda Station. Not a sub station as is the current situation.

“Political representatives must redouble efforts and work together. The Minister for Justice must step up to the challenge and allocate more Gardaí and resources to Ballyfermot to tackle this crisis.”

A garda spokesman said the incident is being investigated and appealed for anyone with information to contact Ballyfermot Garda Station at 6667200, or the Confidential Line 1800 666111.