Blaze probe at social housing site

Council denies area earmarked for new arrivals

- BY MICHAEL O'TOOLE Crime and Defence Editor

GARDAI have launched an investigation after a blaze ravaged a site that had been earmarked for social housing.

Three properties at the former Duffy's Bakery site in Ballina, Co Mayo, were affected by the fire, which broke out on Monday afternoon.

Mayo County Council, which has built the 34 home complex, yesterday insisted it was destined to be used to ease the local housing crisis - despite online rumours it was intended for international protection applicants.

Senior council official Catherine McConnell yesterday told RTE it never considered housing asylum seekers at the site.