Gardaí investigating a suspected arson at a former Co Tipperary school have said they are aware of "possible misinformation" over the use of the derelict building which only emerged on social media in the aftermath of the fire.
Emergency services were alerted to a fire at the former Patrician national school on the Rocklow Road in Fethard at 9.20pm last night.
Three units of the fire service from Clonmel, including a lifting platform, together with a water tender from Cashel, fought the blaze, finally extinguishing it shortly after midnight.
There were no injuries but there was extensive damage to the building.
Gardaí said that it was "aware of possible misinformation, disinformation and rumour in relation to the use or proposed use" of the buidling and that their investigation is ongoing.
They appealed for anyone with information that can be of assistance to contact Clonmel Garda Station on 052 617 7640, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
Meanwhile, the Department of Integration said it "neither considered or examined" the former school for use as accommodation for International Protection Applicants.
The four-classroom building has been derelict for many years. Most recently it had been used as a scout den.
'Awful to see this happen' - Councillor
Members of the Garda Forensic Unit were due at the scene today to carry out a technical examination after local gardaí confirmed they are treating the fire as a suspected case of arson.
Locals told RTÉ News that there had been reports of some anti-social behavior at the derelict building in recent times.
Local Fine Gael county councillor Mark Fitzgerald condemned what he called "misinformation online or on social media" falsely claiming the building as being earmarked for refugee accommodation and "using it as an opportunity to spread hatred".
Mr Fitzgerald said it was "awful to see this happen to an old historic building in the town of Fethard".
He added: "We just have to let the gardaí have the time to conduct their investigation and I'd like to commend the emergency services for their fast response.
"Thankfully no one was injured in the fire."
