Minister Cummins’ statement on Waterford Jute Factory fire

Minister of State for Planning & Local Government and Waterford Fine Gael representative, John Cummins TD has expressed his shock and sadness relating to the fire at the old Jute Factory site in Waterford City overnight.

Waterford Fire Services have brought a major fire which broke out at the commercial premises in Tycor on Saturday evening, May 9th under control.

The building has been extensively damaged and fire services operations continue at the site this morning, as members of the public are advised to avoid the area while operations continue.

Minister Cummins said: “I’m deeply shocked and saddened to see the extensive nature of the fire at the old Jute Factory in Waterford City. I want to pay tribute to all the firefighters who have battled to get this devastating fire under control since 6pm yesterday. It was clear for all of us at the game at Walsh Park yesterday that this was serious - but I don’t think anyone could have imagined the scale of the fire that unfolded.

Minister Cummins added: “I’m thinking in a special way of all the business owners, employees and service operators that have been impacted by this fire. I know the Waterford public will rally behind them.”