An investigation has been launched following a fire at Hassetts pub.
Fire services were called to the north side pub around 4.10am Friday morning following a report of a fire on the premises. The fire, described by Gardai as small, was brought under control and the area was immediately sealed off for forensic examinations.
A short time after, while carrying out searches of the bar, officers discovered what they described as possible “incendiary device” at the rear of the building and immediately closed down Hassetts Cross and surrounding roads as a precaution. Nearby St. Munchins primary School was evacuated as a precaution, given its proximity to the pub and children were sent home. Traffic was diverted from the scene causing some disruption.
The Army explosive ordinance team was requested to attend the scene and arrived shortly after 11am. Army officers examined the scene and just after midday the device was declared an elaborate hoax.
Gardai at Mayorstone are investigating the fire and are appealing for anyone who may have seen anything to contact them.
I notice they were serving pints in there again as I walked past around six!