Suspected arson attack on Oldcastle pharmacy condemned

A fire which caused extensive damage to a pharmacy in Oldcastle overnight is believed to be the result of an arson attack.

The incident has been roundly condemned locally as a cowardly act.

The blaze which swept through the building shortly before midnight, last night (Wednesday), caused extensive damage.

Two fire units, from Oldcastle and Kells, along with garda attended the scene. The fire was swiftly brought under control but the damage had been done.

Earlier this year the adjacent hotel had been the subject of a Section Five application to allow its use as an IPAS Centre.

However in October, the owners said that application had been withdrawn and there were plans to re-open the building as a hotel.

Deputy Johnny Guirke has condemned the arson attack in the strongest possible terms.

"This cowardly act has no place in our town and must be unequivocally rejected by everyone who lives Oldcastle.

"Those who carried out this attack should be ashamed of themselves. By last nights arson attack on our town’s pharmacy, they have not only endangered the lives of residents of neighbouring properties but have also deprived the owner and dedicated staff of their livelihoods with just a week before Christmas.

"This malicious act has robbed a family of their ability to provide for themselves and their customers of a local, essential service they rely on daily.

"Oldcastle is a great town with strong community values, but a small number of individuals have distorted the truth, spread false rumours, and fear-mongered, which contributed to the fear and unrest that culminated in last night’s arson. We will not allow misinformation to define our town."

Deputy Guirke said the owner of the pharmacy had served Oldcastle with distinction for 25 years and is deeply respected for her ongoing commitment to the community.

"They have been a positive figure in the town, actively involved in numerous groups and initiatives that strengthen Oldcastle, such as the local tidy towns. This attack is an affront to all who know and value the owners contribution.

"Those who took part in last night’s attack are a disgrace to Oldcastle. I condemn in the strongest terms the spreaders of hate and the drivers of destruction who have damaged our community. What name does this give Oldcastle. It is a stain we must all reject and call out.

"I'm calling on the Gardaí to act decisively. If you have information about last night’s arson, I urge you to come forward to assist the Gardaí. Please report any details to the Gardaí as soon as possible so that those responsible can be identified and held to account.

" The people of Oldcastle will support the owner, the workers, and the local community through this time, and we must ensure the culprit is found and those that have incited this hatred in Oldcastle are called out," he concluded.

Cllr Peter Caffrey said that there was great support for the pharmacy owner in the local community.

"People are very upset The place is destroyed. This business has been very generous and a great support to the local community over the years. The community will now row in behind her and support her," he vowed.