LOCALS in Cork have been left furious after an Irish playground was forced to close down following a “deliberately” sparked fire in the area.
Carrigtwohill Community Council confirmed the play area was “extensively” damaged in the blaze and kids must now be kept away from the area during the height of summer holidays.
Local firefighters and Gardai rushed to the scene when the alarms were raised.
The firefighters managed to prevent “much more significant damage”, but the playground was still harmed in the blaze.
Due to the heartbreaking incident, the playground was forced to close for repairs, which will “take time” and significant funds to rectify, providing a major blow to local families.
Carrigtwohill Community Council said: “It was with a profound sense of disappointment that I learned of the fire that was started today in our Community Playground.
“Any vandalism of community amenities shows a lack respect not only for the charity and individual volunteers responsible for their maintenance, but also for the wider community who benefit greatly from their use.
“The damage caused today has been extensive and, as has been noted by others, it will take time and significant funds to rectify.
“What is worse, however, is that local families and their young children will be deprived of a source of fun and play during the height of summer.“
They revealed that they are currently cooperating with the cops and analysing the CCTV footage in order to hold those responsible to account for the fire incident.
The council pleaded with locals to come forward to the Gardai or the council with information that may be useful to assist the investigation.
They added: “Thankfully, amongst the vast majority of Carrigtwohill residents, community spirit is strong. We will repair. We will rebuild.
“And we will reopen the playground as soon as is possible, for the responsible enjoyment of all.”
Liam Quaide, Social Democrats TD for Cork East, said: “Shocked and saddened to see what appears to be extensive fire-damage to Carrigtwohill playground this evening.
“This is a vital amenity for families in East Cork. Important that it is restored for use as soon as possible and that the incident is thoroughly investigated.”
Fianna Fail Cllr Dominic Finn added: “This is terrible news for the community. So sorry to hear that this has happened.”
‘SO DISAPPOINTING’
The locals were left heartbroken after hearing the news of their beloved playground being tarnished and closed off from the public during the summer season.
One local said: “So saddened that such a beautiful facility has been put out of service. Young kids missing out as the result of the actions of vandals.
“Hope those responsible are caught and held accountable.”
Another person added: “So disappointing.”
The third person said: “Disgraceful behaviour, the time and effort that went into fundraising for the playground. Kids off school for the summer holidays and now they can’t use it. Hope they are caught.”
Another local said: “So so sorry to see what happened. Let’s hope they are caught and soon! So much time and effort goes into these facilities for the community.”
