Police in the Republic of Ireland are investigating a "criminal damage incident by fire" that occurred on Saturday night at a former hotel in the village of Roscahill, western County Galway. The site was earmarked to house asylum-seekers, and the incident has raised concerns among officials and the public.

No one was present at the facility when the blaze broke out, which led to the partial destruction of the Ross Lake House Hotel. Video footage of the flames was broadcasted by Ireland's RTE television on Sunday.

The fire occurred following a rally by those opposing the government's plans to accommodate 70 asylum-seekers in the village. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar expressed his deep concern about the incident. In a statement, he condemned the violence, saying, "There is no justification for violence, arson or vandalism in our Republic. Ever."

This incident comes amidst a housing crisis in Ireland, with opposition to government policies regarding asylum-seekers increasing in recent weeks. Peaceful protests have been widespread across the country. The situation has become so critical that tents have been distributed to new arrivals by the agency responsible for housing asylum-seekers.

Varadkar has assured citizens that every person seeking asylum in Ireland is thoroughly vetted and registered. However, tensions still persist. Just last month, Dublin witnessed severe rioting when far-right agitators rioted, causing damage to businesses and public property, following the stabbing of three children by an Algerian-born assailant.

Highlighting the magnitude of the issue, Varadkar emphasized that the increase in asylum-seekers is a global phenomenon driven by factors such as war, poverty, climate change, and human rights abuses. He acknowledged that the recent outbreak of violence is the work of a "very small minority," praising the communities that have opened their doors to help those in need.

Meanwhile, the police investigation into the criminal damage incident in Roscahill continues, striving to determine those responsible for the fire at the asylum-seeker housing site.