Families left homeless after a fire tore through an apartment building in Portarlington, Co Laois, are receiving temporary shelter at the local GAA club as the community rallies to support those affected.
The fire broke out at the three-storey Oaks apartment block in Kilnacourt Woods shortly before 6 a.m. on Wednesday, prompting a large emergency response. 41 firefighters from stations in Portarlington, Mountmellick, Portlaoise, and Monasterevin battled the blaze after the alarm was raised at 5:55 a.m.
Two individuals were taken to the hospital by ambulance. One person was rescued from the second floor by firefighters, while another reportedly jumped from the building to escape the flames.
Residents evacuated from the complex, many wearing only their pyjamas, have been provided with warm blankets, food, and hot drinks at Portarlington GAA Club, where they are being looked after by volunteers. Among those displaced are families with young children, including a baby.
The fire is now understood to be under control, though the apartment block suffered severe structural damage. The blaze also caused temporary power outages in nearby homes and businesses.
In a statement, Laois Fire and Emergency Services confirmed that crews used fire tenders, water tankers, and a hydraulic platform to tackle the fire. While firefighters have contained the flames, crews remain on site, addressing structural damage to the roof and ensuring the building is safe.
The building, which contains approximately nine units, sustained extensive damage from both the fire and the water used to extinguish it. The severity of the damage means that several residents will require long-term rehousing.
Laois County Council has pledged to provide emergency accommodation for those who cannot stay with family or friends. However, local authorities acknowledge that some residents will need permanent housing, as their homes have been completely destroyed.
The community has swiftly come together to support those impacted, with donations of food, clothing, and essential supplies pouring into the GAA club. Local businesses have also offered assistance, demonstrating the town’s spirit of solidarity in the wake of the tragedy.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, though no official determination has been made at this time.
