Gardaí question teens over church vandalism
Gardaí in Clifden are following a number of lines of inquiry into the extensive damage that was caused to the Holy Trinity Church on the Errislannan peninsula in West Connemara.
It’s understood that Gardai have spoken to two 16-year-olds as part of their ongoing investigation into the incident which has horrified the local community and church leaders of every religion.
It is estimated that around €70,000 may be needed to repair the Church of Ireland property that attracts 30 regular parishioners and hosts evening services during July and August.
The church is located in a remote area and was subjected to an attack by vandals which resulted in windows being smashed, electrics ripped out of the walls, andthe pulpit, pews and organ being destroyed.
At the time of the attack two weeks ago, Canon Stan Evans, who is charge of the parishes of Errislannan, Clifden, Roundstone and Moyard, expressed shock and sadness by what had happened.
He described it as the worst experience that he ever had during his ministry and said the actions of those responsible were “horrendous”. He pointed out that every pew was overturned and smashed and he could not see any gain to be achieved by those responsible.
Since the incident, Gardaí have carried out extensive inquiries in the immediate area of the church and earlier this week concentrated their attentions on two teenagers.
Both teens have been questioned and released pending further investigations. It is understood that the two have since returned to secondary school.
Support came from Catholic Archbishop of Tuam while a local fund was set up to help towards the repairs of the church.
President Michael D Higgins visited the church today to inspect first hand the vandalism.