A fire has broken out overnight in a pub in Ringsend, Co Dublin, where anti-immigrant protests previously took place. 

Dublin Fire Brigade said the fire in the former Shipwright pub, also known as Sally’s Bar, started shortly before 2am today, December 31st. 

Six fire engines, including a turntable ladder, were involved in bringing the blaze at the vacant pub and guesthouse under control. 

No one was injured in the fire, and the scene has been preserved for a forensic examination. 

Gardaí have launched an investigation to determine whether the fire was caused by arson.

The building in Ringsend had been the subject of anti-immigration protests earlier this month after false rumours the pub would be used as accommodation for asylum seekers.

Overnight, firefighters were called to a vacant premises on fire in #Ringsend

6️⃣ Fire engines attended including a turntable ladder to fight the fire from above

💨 Smoke drifted across the area

Thanks to @DubCityCouncil who increased the water supply to the fireground pic.twitter.com/NgswSP6jhG

— Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) December 31, 2023

It's believed the pub and guesthouse were being considered for emergency accommodation for homeless families. 

Green Party Councillor Claire Byrne said the fire was "unbelievably sad".

"The building was to be used by the Dublin Region Homeless Executive as a family hub," she said.

Labour politician Aodhán Ó Ríordáin said: "Outrageous that our brave firefighters have to on the frontline dealing with hate attacks like this."