Louth councillor condemns Castlebellingham Church damage

Sinn Féin Councillor Pearse McGeough has condemned those responsible for causing damage at the local Church of Ireland in Castlebellingham.

Speaking after visiting the Church before Christmas, Cllr McGeough said: “This beautiful Church has an adjacent building which is joined by a covered alcove.

"That alcove seems to be attracting an anti-social element as a shelter from the elements when they wish to ‘hang out’.

"Unfortunately, because the door to this alcove was locked there was damage caused to it by those who were determined to get into it.”

This is not the first time Cllr McGeough has been contacted in relation to damage.

Cllr McGeough said: “There have been similar occurrences in 2018 and 2019 when there was extensive damage done.

"What people tend to forget is that these are sacred grounds and as such there should be respect for the building and also those who are buried within the grounds.

"I am of the belief that it is young people who are seeking shelter but they are old enough to know what they are doing and that the damage they are causing has to be repaired and paid for by somebody.”

Concluding, Cllr McGeough said: “The people in Castlebellingham have no time for vandalism especially at a Church and a few mindless, immature people will not destroy our sense of community.

“In the meantime, I would ask people to keep an eye out and report any anti-social behaviour and also if you noticed anything around the Church of Ireland on the Sunday night before Christmas please let the Gardaí know.”