Two schools and a number of businesses at an industrial park in Baile Chlair, Co Galway, have been evacuated after an incident at a lithium battery production plant.
It follows what has been described as a "venting issue" at the Xerotech facility in Claregalway Corporate Park.
It is understood that the production of batteries was disrupted yesterday due to a fire at the plant.
Fire service personnel attended the scene and the area in question was flooded to contain the problem.
However, while the fire has been contained, there is concern that gasses resulting from the production processes are not dispersing due to humidity levels.
📣Press Statement Galway County Council📣 - Major Fire Incident at Claregalway Corporate Business Park pic.twitter.com/M6a9Nuq2UW
— Galway County Council (@GalwayCoCo) January 30, 2025
As a result, neighbouring businesses in the park are being advised to evacuate the site as a precautionary measure.
Some 1,300 students from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir were moved Claregalway GAA Club at Knockdoemore, while pupils at Claregalway Educate Together National School were moved to the church in Claregalway.
Galway County Council has advised parents and guardians not to go to the schools as access is restricted, but said they can collect their children from the GAA club and the church.
Xerotech makes batteries for industrial electrical vehicles and has expanded significantly at its Galway base since the company was established some years ago.
