School authorities in County Mayo have issued an urgent appeal for public information following a destructive break-in that targeted a local chapel and convent.
The vandalism at Our Lady's Secondary School in Belmullet was discovered on Friday. Edmund Holmes, principal of the co-educational secondary school, expressed deep dismay over the incident, stating that the chapel had been desecrated.
According to school leadership, sacred images, religious artefacts, stained-glass windows, and various furnishings sustained heavy damage. Portions of the interior were left in a shocking state of destruction following the targeted raid.
Mr Holmes emphasized that the site represents far more than physical infrastructure for the region. The campus buildings hold deep historical, cultural, and spiritual importance for generations of families and staff across the wider Erris community.
“To see such a cherished part of our school’s history treated with such disregard is deeply disappointing,” Mr Holmes said. He noted that the religious sisters who dedicated their lives to local education also hold strong ties to the heritage spaces.
School officials are asking anyone who noticed suspicious activity in or around the campus, convent, or chapel over recent weeks to come forward immediately. Authorities have urged local residents to reach out directly to school administration or contact the Gardaí.
“No piece of information is too small, and any assistance would be greatly appreciated,” Mr Holmes added, noting that investigators and school leaders believe the vast majority of local residents share a profound respect for the regional heritage.
The facility itself was originally established in 1943 by the Sisters of Mercy and operates as a CEIST school. Local authorities continue to review the damage as the investigation proceeds.
