Gardaí say the results of a technical examination at the scene of a fire, which destroyed a building near Brittas in south county Dublin, will guide the investigation into the cause of the blaze.
Protests have been held in the area recently - amid speculation that the premises was earmarked to accommodate asylum seekers.
A fire broke out at St Brigid's Nursing Home in Crooksling on Sunday.
A formal examination of the building was due to be undertaken to assess its safety.
Gardaí say that once the scene is made safe, they can begin the technical examination.
Minister appalled over 'attack' on vacant Co Dublin nursing home
Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said she was appalled at what she said was an attack on the former nursing home.
Dublin Fire Brigade worked to contain the fire throughout Sunday, with parts of the building still smouldering late in the evening.
A Solidarity Councillor for South Dublin County Council said the suspected arson attack is a "horrific action by a small number".
Speaking to RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Kieran Mahon said the action, motivation and politics behind the fire need to be condemned and the escalating actions of people carrying out these attacks need to be "stamped out".
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Cllr Mahon said: "I think it's a horrific action by a small minority of people who are very clearly identified with far-right groups and are trying to organise around the housing crisis and the issue of immigration to drive their own agenda, which ultimately is not an agenda that can resolve the housing issues or the cost of living crisis facing working-class communities across the state."
It was fortunate that the building was unoccupied and no one was injured, he said.
Cllr Mahon said that the council has been lobbying for any land that is available for housing to be used properly.
However, he added, there had been no talks with the Department of Integration about using the facility as housing for international protection applicants.
Mr Mahon said the property could have been developed in a way to benefit many people who are currently living in substandard accommodation.
He said that residents staying at Kilbride army base have reported that they have been without running water for several days and the former nursing home could also have been used to help them.
Mr Mahon said that there is a myth that "Ireland is full" and he would not have had an issue if the building had been used for asylum seekers.
