A murder investigation has been launched into the deaths of three people in a fire in Kilcock, Co Kildare, 30 years ago.

Barbara Doyle, 20, and her two nieces, three-year-old Kerrie Byrne and her eight-year-old sister Mary Ellen, died in the fire at the Byrne's home on Church Lane on 20 September 1987.

Ms Doyle was a sister of the children's mother, Elizabeth Byrne, and was babysitting on the night.

Elizabeth and her husband Aidan had gone out to a 21st birthday party when the fire broke out at their house.

It was reported between 3am and 4am that morning and it was originally believed that it was accidental.

However, the case was reviewed by the Serious Crime Review Team and detectives at Leixlip Garda Station.

They have recently received new information that the fire was started deliberately and a murder investigation has been launched.

Mr Byrne has since died, and the children's mother still lives in the house on Church Lane.

Barbara Doyle

Kerrie Byrne

Mary Ellen Byrne

The Byrne family has been informed of the investigation.

Speaking to the media, Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche said "We are satisfied there are people who will remember this fire and the deaths of Barbara, Mary Ellen, and Kerrie, and who have not yet spoken to gardaí.

"We are appealing to any person who has any information to contact Leixlip garda station at 01-6667800 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.

"I would further appeal that the privacy of the Byrne and Doyle families is respected at this time."