TERRIFYING: Two people hospitalised after fire rips through apartment block in Portarlington
Fire crews are still working to put the flames out
It’s understood two people have been taken to hospital following a large fire which broke out in Laois overnight.
Fire crews from Portlaoise, Portarlington, Mountmellick and Monasterevin are continuing to battle a blaze at an apartment complex in Portarlington.
Laois Fire and Rescue Services described it as a large fire but said the blaze was now under control.
TAP FOR UPDATE: Families getting emergency care after terrifying fire at apartment building in Portarlington
Independent Cllr Aidan Mullins said the fire appeared to peak at around 5.30 or 6am this morning.
“I was down there. There is a number of units or apartments gone,” he explained.
He said the GAA Club has opened its doors to accommodate anyone who needs shelter.
“I spoke to quite a few of those affected at the site in Kilnacourt, some residents, some property owners. The ones I spoke to had somewhere to go,” he said.
However, he said there are people at the GAA club and Laois County Council has sent an official to the scene to assist people.
Laois Fire and Rescue Service said they would have a statement in relation to the fire later today.
Gardaí said they are aware of the incident.