TWO YOUNG CHILDREN were hospitalised today after falling from the balcony of a second-story apartment in Co Waterford. 

The incident happened at the apartment in Block C of Mount Suir Manor in Carrickphierish, on the outskirts of Waterford city, shortly before 11am this morning. 

A glass panel on the balcony is believed to have given way, which led to the children falling.

They were both brought to University Hospital Waterford to be treated for injuries that are not believed to be serious. 

Gardaí said members of the force in Waterford “assisted other agencies in responding to a medical emergency” at the residential property this morning.

“An Garda Síochána has no additional information regarding the incident,” a spokesperson said. 

Concerns have been raised over the quality of the apartment by residents and politicians over the years.

In a statement, Waterford City and County Council said it was notified of “a serious incident” at the apartment complex today.

“The Council has reached out to the family to offer support and a formal investigation into the incident has commenced,” it said. 

Independent councillor Joe Kelly said the council gave elected representatives a briefing today in which they said that examinations will be carried out on “all balconies” in the complex over the coming days.

“My concern is with these two children, and that they have a speedy recovery, because the drop was 20 feet or more. It’s horrendous,” Kelly said.

“If there is a need for work, it needs to be done with huge urgency. The last thing we need is any other serious incidents.”

He said the council bought Block C of the property following the economic crash, but it has been blighted for years by structural issues.

“So far the problems have all been related to the interior of the apartments: dampness, mildew, several clothes, toys and beds thrown out over the years. But this is an exterior problem this time.”

Kelly said a “full examination” of the entire blocks to density and possible hazards that might exist.