Earlier this week heavily armed gunmen from the PSNI visited St. Benedict’s College, Randalstown. In front of a room full of pupils they pointed high powered rifles at school staff, apparently with their full cooperation. Ironically the purpose of this event was to inform pupils that guns and knives can ruin lives. Communities throughout Ireland will know all too well the lives that have been ruined by the RUC and PSNI use of guns and the ongoing role that State forces continue to play in the harassment of Republicans.
Today Lasair Dhearg has contacted the school seeking assurances that in future youth spaces are kept as safe and neutral venues for young people. We have also sought clarification on whether the school has given consideration to the following:
– The ongoing use of child informants
– History of the local area and public opinion
– A risk assessment that takes into consideration armed gunmen on premises
– The relevance to the educational curriculum
– Conflict related trauma
– The distribution and receipt of parental consent
PSNI Gunmen Target Rifles at Staff of County Antrim School
