Taoiseach leads tributes to woman and children who died in Clondalkin fire

The Taoiseach has led tributes to the mother, daughter, and another young child who died overnight after a fire at a residence in Clondalkin.

The tragedy unfolded around 2:30am when a blaze broke out at an apartment in Kilcronan Avenue, which is used Sonas Domestic Violence Charity to provide short-term accommodation for women and children.

Dublin Fire Brigade units from Tallaght, Rathfarnham, Dolphin’s Barn and Donnybrook attended the scene, as well as ambulances from the National Ambulance Service.

Two women and three children (two girls and one boy) were in the apartment at the time.

A 27-year-old woman, her daughter and another young gir young girl were taken to Tallaght Hospital and pronounced dead a short time later.

The second woman, aged in her 30s, was taken to St James Hospital and a four-year-old boy was taken to Our Lady’s Hospital in Crumlin.

Their condition is described as critical.

Sadly, we were called to a tragic fire in #Clondalkin in the early hours. Our thoughts are with the families, friends & local community.

— Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) March 8, 2017

Speaking this morning Enda Kenny said: “I want to tender our sympathy on the death of a young mother and two young girls who lost their lives from smoke inhalation in a fire early this morning and to the others who have been injured.”

In a statement released this lunchtime by Sonas, CEO Fiona Ryan said the organisation is working with the relevant authorities, and they are waiting on further details from An Garda Siochana.

Fiona Ryan said: “Our sympathies and condolences are with the relatives and friends of the deceased and all those impacted by this awful tragedy.

“We are devastated by the tragic loss of life which occurred as a result of the fire in an apartment in our supported housing complex in Clondalikin.

“We would ask that the privacy of all families residing in this complex be respected at this time of loss.”

Meanwhile, Inspector ken McLaughlin from Clondalkin Garda station, speaking to the media this morning, said: “I would like to express our sincere sympathies to those involved in this incident, it was a terrible tragedy.

“There were two adults and three children in this terrible incident.

“The scene is sealed off and there will be a full investigation by An Garda Siochana in relation to it, and we are going to liaise with all the relevant authorities.

“At the moment we’re keeping an open mind on the incident and there will be a further briefing at a later stage.”

Local Fianna Fail TD, John Curran has also expressed his deepest sympathies to the families of three people who have died.

He said: “I wish to express my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and friends of those who have lost their lives in this tragedy.

“I have grown up in Clondalkin all my life and this is one of the most tragic incidents to have ever occurred in the village. This loss of life in such devastating circumstances is difficult for us all in our close community to comprehend.

“My thoughts are also with the young woman who is fighting for her life at St James’s Hospital, Dublin and the young boy who has been seriously injured and being treated at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin.

“It is also important to acknowledge the sterling and dedicated work of the emergency services, including Dublin Fire Brigade and the Gardaí who have again displayed enormous public service in very difficult circumstances.

Neighbours and friends of the deceased have been leaving flowers and tributes at the scene this morning, with many still in shock.

One local resident said: “We just can’t believe something like this could happen. You hear about it on the telly, but you never think it will happen in your estate.

“The women in there were lovely, they kept to themselves for the most part, they had obviously had a tough time of it before, and it’s just such a tragedy for everyone involved and for the community too.”

Investigations continue this afternoon, with an update from gardai expected later today.

Gardaí are appealing to witnesses to contact them at Clondalkin Garda Station on 01-666 7600, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.