Minister Slams School Arson Attacks

Separate arson attacks that recently targeted both a State and two Catholic schools have been roundly condemned.

The NI Education Minister Caitríona Ruane (pictured) yesterday called for such attacks to end.

The Minister was speaking after visiting the devastated Whitehouse Primary School in Newtownabbey and St Mary's Star of the Sea Primary School and St Patrick's College, Bearnageeha.

The Minister said: "Over recent days we have seen attacks on a number of schools, including the destruction of Whitehouse Primary School and damage at St Mary's Star of the Sea Primary School and St Patrick’s College, Bearnageeha.

"All these attacks are totally senseless and must be condemned. I have visited the schools and offered the support of my Department," she said.

"My officials met with the North Eastern Education and Library Board over the weekend and will be working to ensure minimal disruption to the education of children from Whitehouse Primary when they return after the summer break," she continued.

"Many schools are at the heart of their communities and these attacks not only hit the school population, but the wider community.

"I have been heartened to hear of the offers of support coming in for the schools from other areas and organisations. It is essential that a co-ordinated effort is made to support our children and young people," she said.

"Attacks on schools serve no purpose whatsoever but cause disruption for children and the loss of important school work.

"They are an unnecessary drain on education budgets that are already stretched and must stop immediately."

See: School Gets New Home As Blaze Probed

(BMcC/KMcA)