Squatters suspected in arson probe

Galway Gardaí are investigating a suspected arson attack on a well-known disused hotel on an approach road into the city.

Emergency services attended a blaze at the old Corrib Great Southern Hotel on the Dublin Road over the Bank Holiday weekend.

The fire broke out at around 4pm on Sunday, March 16, and was attended by Gardaí and Fire Brigade personnel.

The fire was contained by the fire services and extent of the damage to the already deteriorated building was not thought to be too severe.

A Garda spokesperson has confirmed a fire started in the building on Sunday afternoon and they are investigating the cause.

Gardaí are investigating the theory that squatters or youths may have started the fire and then fled as it got out of control.

There is no CCTV cameras at the former hotel although nearby premises may have footage of the perpetrators as they left the scene.

 Local area City Councillor Terry O’Flaherty said it was a shame the landmark building has been idle for so long.

“It is such a great pity that it is empty. It has such a great location and I really would like to see it open and used for something – it’s a prime site and it’s a shame that it’s not used,” said the Independent Councillor.

For more on this story, see the Galway City Tribune.