Dublin: Woman and children die in fire at women’s refuge
Image copyright RTEA woman and two children have died following a fire at a women's refuge in Dublin.
Gardai (Irish Police) said the blaze broke out in the complex in Cluainin Cronan in Clondalkin at about 02:30 local time.
The woman, who was 27 and the two children, aged two and three, were taken to Tallaght Hospital but were pronounced dead.
Another woman in her 30s was rescued along with a four-year-old boy.
They are in a critical condition in Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin.
The apartment was on the first floor of a small complex next to the Grand Canal.
Insp Ken McLaughlin said gardaí were keeping an open mind as to the cause of the fire.
Seven residents of nearby apartments were moved out of their homes during the emergency.
The block of flats has been cordoned off.
Children's Minister Katherine Zappone said her thoughts and prayers were with all those affected by the fire.
