Two people have been taken to hospital following a blaze that broke out at an apartment block in Portarlington this morning.
The fire, at an apartment complex in Kilnacourt, started around 6am this morning.
Emergency services and fire crews from multiple districts attended the blaze.
The fire has been brought under control but emergency services remain at the scene.
It is understood that around nine apartments have been completely destroyed by the blaze with significant damage done to those nearby.
It is believed that two people have been taken to hospital but the extent of their injuries is unknown.
Laois Independent Councillor Aidan Mullins, who is down at the scene, confirmed that those who are there are being looked after.
He said: “Portarlington GAA have kindly opened their facilities and everyone from the apartment complex is being assessed.
“They are being provided with food and shelter for now.
“Council officials and people from the Department of Social Protection are there.
“Those who require emergency accommodation are being sorted out.
“There is a mix of families, owners and renters in the complex so they have been left in a very serious situation.
“But all the officials are doing their best to get everyone sorted.”
