The Department of Social Protection has put emergency supports in place for residents of the Verdemont complex in Blanchardstown which suffered extensive fire damage this week.

Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar has extended his sympathies to residents and said the Department's local Community Welfare Service is working with Fingal County Council to support anyone affected.

Several people have already been in touch with the Department to discuss financial supports under the Exceptional Needs Payments and Urgent Needs Payments schemes.

"This was a shocking fire which has seriously disrupted the lives of many people. I extend my sincere sympathies to everyone affected. I spoke to the CEO of Fingal County Council last night to get a full update and am monitoring the situation closely.

"I want to assure residents affected that the Department is on hand to discuss how it can best support those affected. The Department's Community Welfare Service has already held an emergency multi-agency clinic offering advice and support, in tandem with the council and Citizens Information.

"I want to thank Dublin Fire Brigade, the Gardaí, staff in my Department and in Fingal County Council for their swift and effective response."

Earlier, Labour TD and former Tánaiste Joan Burton called for a 'detailed enquiry' into the incident.

Emergency services were called to the scene at at the Verdemont complex - off the Snugborough Rd in Blanchardstown - early yesterday evening.

Residents of dozens of apartments were evacuated, while a number of apartments received substantial damage in the blaze. 

There were no reports of injuries, while Dublin Civil Defence set up a rest centre for those forced to evacuate.