Mayor 'Proud' Of Newry Firemen's Actions

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has been praised for a swift response to an arson attack at a block of flats in Newry's Cornmarket.

It happened last Tuesday morning, when residents affected by the fire - who are foreign nationals - were trapped by the suspected arson attack.

Councillor John Feehan, Newry's Mayor, said: "I am very proud of the firemen from Newry and Warrenpoint Fire Stations whose prompt and professional action prevented the loss of life and injury of the residents.

"The residents of the Newry and Mourne area are very fortunate to have a fire service who are fully trained in managing these most difficult and potentially life threatening situations," he added.

Ten residents, including two children, were rescued from flats, which were above a bookmakers shop, at around 3am.

A total of 16 persons lived in the flats but six had escaped before the emergency services arrived.

Five residents had to be treated for the effects of smoke inhalation.

The spokesperson said the fire in the four-storey building was already well developed by the time of their arrival.

Councillor Feehan also paid tribute to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive for their prompt attention in ensuring that all those left homeless were re-housed immediately to the satisfaction of all concerned.

The Mayor called on the residents of the area to be "very careful and vigilant" in ensuring that the possibility of similar fires were prevented in the future.

(BMcC/GK)