Fire brigades from Carrick-On-Suir and Clonmel in Tipperary tackled a large fire at Carrick-On-Suir Mart in Co Tipperary on Monday 16 April.

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of the fire, which occurred around 7pm.

It is understood the fire started in the bathroom region of the building.

Speaking to the Irish Farmers Journal, John Curran, Carrick-on-Suir Mart manager, said the damage is severe.

“The yard and pens are fine, but the administration buildings are all destroyed. The asbestos roof is being dealt with now and that has to be done first before we can start cleaning up.

“The intention is to rebuild. Whether we can have a temporary setup will depend on the insurance.

“We believe it was an electrical fire that started it. There were no people or animals in the building at the time.”

Curran was very appreciative of the fire brigades and the numerous phone calls of support he has received since the incident.

“The phone is just blowing up all day and night with farmers and other marts offering us assistance. We are just blown away by the support from farmers and business people.”

A Garda spokesperson told the Irish Farmers Journal: “At this stage it is not believed to be suspicious.

“A substantial amount of damage was caused. Investigations are ongoing.”

All sales at the mart have been postponed until further notice.