Locals in Erris, Co Mayo have been left outraged following extreme vandalism of the historic convent and chapel at Our Lady’s Secondary School in Belmullet.

School staff discovered the sacred local landmark in ruins this weekend, with stained-glass windows smashed, religious artefacts damaged, and historic furnishings destroyed.

‘It is with great sadness and disappointment that I share photographs of this extensive vandalism,’ said Principal Edmund Holmes.

‘We are particularly dismayed to think that people among us could desecrate our beautiful chapel.’

An attack on local heritage

The chapel holds deep historical and spiritual significance for generations of Belmullet families, staff, and religious sisters.

‘This building is much more than bricks and mortar,’ Holmes said.

‘It is an important part of the history and heritage of Belmullet and the wider Erris community, holding special memories for generations of students, families, staff and the religious sisters who dedicated so much of their lives to education in our community.

‘To see such a cherished part of our school’s history treated with such disregard is deeply disappointing.

‘This is not simply an act of vandalism against our school. It is an attack on a place of great historical, cultural and spiritual significance to our entire community.’

Urgent public appeal

Gardaí and school management are appealing to the public for help.

‘No piece of information is too small, and any assistance would be greatly appreciated, ‘ the Principal of Our Lady’s Secondary School in Belmullet said.

‘We know that the overwhelming majority of people in our community share our respect for these buildings and the important place they hold in our local heritage.

‘We cannot allow such destruction to go unchallenged. These buildings and their history belong to our community, and we all have a responsibility to protect them for future generations.’

Anyone who noticed suspicious activity around the school or chapel grounds in recent weeks is urged to contact Belmullet Garda Station or Our Lady’s Secondary School.