Two adults and two children die in Waterford house fire

Four people have been reported to have lost their lives in the fatal house fire this morning in Waterford city.

Gardai have confirmed that two adults, one male and one female, and two children are deceased.

Two other children have been removed from the scene and are receiving hospital treatment for critical injuries.

The fire occurred in the Birchwood area of Waterford city shortly after 5am this morning, Tuesday.

Speaking to RTÉ News this morning, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with anybody who lost their lives here and to all who are affected.

“We think of the first responders who were at the scene, and we say to everyone to give space to the Gardaí, to deal with what is a deeply worrying and devastating situation.”

An Garda Síochána said it is investigating all the circumstances of the fire.

An incident room has been set up at Waterford Garda Station and a senior investigating officer (SIO) has been appointed. Family Liaison Officers have also been appointed.

An Garda Siochána is appealing for information from anyone who may have been in the vicinity of Birch Avenue, Birchwood, Waterford City in the early hours of Tuesday, to contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Gardai said as this is "an ongoing evolving incident" it is not in a position to provide any further detail at present.