Ten people, including a number of children, have died in a fire at a travellers' site in the Republic of Ireland.

A mother and father and a baby were among those who lost their lives after a blaze broke out at a halting site in Carrickmines in south Dublin around 4am.

Five children are believed to be among the dead.

President Michael D Higgins said: "This is a most dreadful tragedy. My thoughts at this time are with the families and friends of those who have lost their lives and those who have been injured."

The Archbishop of Dublin, Diarmuid Martin, said the news was heartbreaking for all in the traveller and wider local community, and asked for prayers to be said for the dead and injured and their families.