GARDAÍ INVESTIGATING THE fire at a hotel in Co Leitrim which has been earmarked for asylum seekers have said those responsible “were not deterred” by the presence of people inside the building. 

The incident at the hotel in Roosky was the second suspected attack at the premises in as many months.

Two fires broke out on the first floor of the Shannon Key West Hotel shortly after 9.15pm last night, but they were quickly brought under control, and no one was injured.

Speaking to Shannonside, Superintendent Kevin English said three members of staff were in the building at the time. 

“Their cars would have been visible from the side of the hotel,” he said.

In that context, the individuals who attempted to burn the hotel were not deterred by their presence.

He added: “It’s obviously quite early in the investigation. We have the scene cordoned off. We will carry out a full technical examination of the scene later today.”

Speaking to TheJournal.ie, local Fianna Fáil TD Marc MacSharry said he “utterly condemned the actions of a small number of individuals” who were involved in the incidents last night and in January.

“There’s no excuse for the criminality,” he said. “I think it’s wrong. Certainly what’s occurred here is wrong and it has put people’s lives in danger.”

The Sligo-Leitrim TD also said that if additional resources were required by the gardaí to protect such areas, then it should be provided.

MacSharry added that while he condemned events at Roosky he was of the opinion that larger urban centres would be better equipped in terms of facilities, amenities and integration potential for refugees coming to live in Ireland.

“I can appreciate a small number may be angry but refugees are welcome in this country,” he said. 

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Carrick-On-Shannon Garda Station on 071 965 0510.