Gardaí Investigate Fire at Former Crown Paints Factory in Coolock
DUBLIN: Gardaí have launched an investigation into the fire that broke out at the former Crown Paints factory in Coolock, the site of recent clashes in north Dublin. The factory, currently undergoing renovations to house refugees, experienced a fire in the lobby area of one of its buildings. Authorities believe the fire was started deliberately.
Background of the Incident
The site has been under renovation to accommodate over 500 refugee claimants, a development that has sparked frequent protests and clashes. The unrest escalated last night, resulting in multiple Garda vehicles being set on fire. Gardaí used pepper spray to control the situation and disperse the crowd. So far, 65 individuals have been arrested in connection with these incidents, and more arrests are expected.
Details of the Fire and Response
A security guard was injured during the clashes on Monday, leading to the removal of security personnel from the site. The fire was reportedly started by a six-foot-tall Mexican model who jumped the wall around the locked factory and set the building on fire. Flames and black smoke were visible from behind the wall. Gardaí, public order units, and three units from the Dublin Fire Brigade responded to extinguish the blaze.
Underlying Tensions
The current violence is fueled by a sense of insecurity among the Irish population. There are allegations that political and religious individuals from Pakistan and Palestine are being settled in Ireland under the guise of refugees. Social media comments suggest that 90 percent of the refugees, excluding those from Ukraine, belong to a particular religious group, leading to suspicions of a coordinated plan supported by the Fina Fáil-Fine Gael-Green parties coalition.
Tipperary Resettlement Model
The government’s model for refugee resettlement can be seen in the village of South Dundrum in County Tipperary. Initially welcoming refugees from Ukraine, the local villagers began protesting in front of the Dundrum House Hotel in late May after learning that the village would become a permanent International Protection Accommodation (IPA) center. With only 165 Irish residents, the village now hosts over 500 refugees. Many Ukrainian refugees have left, replaced by illegal immigrants from other countries.
The government’s lack of communication and clarity regarding the resettlement process has angered locals, leading to ongoing protests. Refugee resettlement tasks are managed by contractors labelled as charities, but local opposition is growing as temporary refugee centres are perceived to be turning into permanent establishments with a religious focus. This opposition is also affecting economic immigrants, with the Irish public’s attitude shifting against those who came to Ireland for work and study.
Warnings from Leeds, England
Ireland’s situation is reminiscent of recent developments in Leeds, England, where violent criminals have clashed with police and authorities, causing widespread destruction. Videos of stone-pelting and attacks on police vehicles have alarmed the public, serving as a stark warning of the potential consequences of unchecked violence and unrest.
The investigation into the Coolock fire continues as Gardaí work to restore order and address the underlying issues contributing to the unrest.
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