Derry Councillor brands sinister threats to schools 'despicable'
Sinn Féin Councillor Christopher Jackson has condemned the latest reports of sinister threats to schools and has called for those responsible to be held accountable.
Threatening emails were sent to schools in Derry, Donegal and elsewhere in Ireland on Wednesday, with the PSNI stating that they were treating the incidents as a hoax.
In Derry, the parents of children in nursery, primary and secondary schools were alerted to the situation after threats were received by numerous schools.
Speaking on Wednesday, Waterside representative Councillor Jackson said: "These latest reports of sinister threats made to schools this morning are despicable. Again they have caused significant anxiety and distress for parents, children and school staff.
“It is completely unacceptable that school communities have once again been left facing this level of fear, uncertainty and disruption.
“It is vital the PSNI and the Education Authority work closely with affected schools to ensure clear and timely information is provided, and that reassurance and support are available to concerned families, pupils and staff.”
He added: “I would urge parents, pupils and the wider community to follow the guidance issued by their schools and the relevant authorities, and to avoid sharing unverified information which could cause further unnecessary alarm.”
Over 300 schools in the north reported to police that they had received the same emailed message which contained a threat. It is believed similar emails have been received by some schools across the south and in Scotland also.
The PSNI said: “Checks have not, at this time, resulted in anything untoward. Based on enquiries and information to date, police are treating this email, which originated from outside the UK, as a hoax. Enquiries are continuing."
Assistant Chief Constable Anthony McNally said: "We take incidents of this nature very seriously and we understand the concern in the community, school communities and for students and parents.
"Our enquiries are ongoing, however, at this stage we consider risk to the public as low. We will continue to liaise with schools impacted and have been working closely with the Department of Education and the Education Authority this morning to provide reassurance.
"We urge everyone, in the meantime, to be vigilant and report anything suspicious to police immediately by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency," he added.