Waterford Jute Factory Fire Damages 30-40 Businesses, Impacts 200 Employees and Disability Service
A large fire at Waterford's old Jute Factory damaged 30-40 businesses, impacting 200 employees and a disability service for 20-30 adults. Authorities are searching for a temporary location for the service and investigating potential asbestos. The government plans a humanitarian scheme to aid those affected.
A major fire at the old Jute Factory in Waterford city's Tycor area from Saturday evening into Sunday morning severely damaged 30-40 of 50 premises in the business centre, affecting up to 200 employees.
The building also housed a Brothers of Charity service for 20-30 adults with intellectual disabilities, which has been cancelled. Minister Mary Butler is working with departments and the council to find a temporary replacement. Several community groups, including Waterford Centre of Music, and four churches were also destroyed.
Waterford City and County Council continues fire operations and is proceeding on the assumption that asbestos is present due to a cement roof. Residents nearby are advised to close windows and doors and avoid debris. Minister John Cummins announced that the government, through Minister Peter Burke, will explore a humanitarian scheme to assist affected businesses and groups. A controlled clean-up, focusing on the roof's safe removal, will begin soon.