LOCALS have been left furious after a GAA club was engulfed in flames after an act of “deliberate vandalism”.
Lamh Dhearg in West Belfast confirmed their facilities in Hannahstown, which were used to celebrate the opening of the new pitch, were destroyed in a suspected arson attack yesterday evening.
It is understood that the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service rushed to the scene when the alarm was raised.
The shocking incident happened as the club geared up for the summer kids camps and championship games.
As a result of the fire, the club shop, the electronic scoreboard and the Pitch in Patrons signage board were destroyed.
In a statement issued to the Irish Sun, the spokesperson said: “As our club makes preparations for hosting a wide range of kids camps and championship games over the summer period, our club facilities have been deliberately targeted this weekend.
“Our club shop, scoreboard and Pitch in Patrons signage board which celebrated the recent opening of our new pitch were all destroyed in a fire.
“The club has made great efforts in recent years to improve our club facilities for our members and local community and are deeply concerned by this act of vandalism at a time when our facilities are needed the most.
“This event has made us more determined to make good the damage and to continue to provide the best facilities for the benefit of so many in our community.”
Despite the suspected arson attack, the GAA club confirmed that the Sceim Samhraidh begins tomorrow from 10am to 2pm.
Parents are urged to ensure children bring a packed lunch, a drink, and appropriate clothing for the event.
Sinn Fein Councillor Arder Carson blasted the incident.
He said: “A pure act of deliberate vandalism that fills you with despair, attacking the very organisation that provides so much for young people and the entire community.
“It has to be condemned without reservation.
“Lámh Dhearg supported by it members and the local community work relentlessly to provide top class facilities and services that give hope and opportunity to young and old alike.
“This is an attack on everyone of them. Lighting any fire in in the open air in this weather beggars belief but this is a different level of reckless stupidity.”
He has urged people who may have information about the vandalism to come forward and make it available to the cops.
‘DISGRACEFUL’
The locals were left heartbroken and disgusted after hearing the news of their beloved GAA club being tarnished moments before the summer camp kicks off.
One local wrote: “Bloody disgraceful.”
Another person added: “Heartbreaking to see the club attacked families have used the facilities for decades and the club had provided a much needed service to the community for so long.”
The third person said: “Words can describe this total act of vandalism so many people young and old depend on these facilities hope the culprits are found and dealt with accordingly.”
The Irish Sun has approached the Police Service of Northern Ireland for comment on the incident.
