Council cathaoirleach blasts 'mindless vandalism' behind Athboy arson attack

Gardaí investigating a fire which occurred on Thursday 3rd December at the old Co-Op premises at Lower Bridge Street, Athboy are appealing for witnesses to the incident.

The fire started at 10pm approximately. A male person was seen running from the scene in the Navan direction shortly after the fire started.

A technical examination of the scene took place on Friday morning.

Independent local Councillor and Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council David Gilroy has urged owners of derelict buildings to secure their premises to avoid another incident.

“It is very frustrating that this has happened again in the town. There is a huge amount of good work happening to promote the town as a very positive place to live and these acts don’t help that.

“These are historic buildings that have stood for generations and acts of mindlessness vandalism really does have a long lasting impact on the heritage of our town.

“This premises has had a very significant role over multiple generations.”

Cllr Gilroy expressed his disappointment at the third incident of vandalism to listed structures in the town in the last year:

“That is the second listed building to be damaged in Athboy in the last twelve months along with the former O'Growney National School and a listed wall being damaged as well so there has been a significant amount of damage to heritage structures in our town.

“I would urge people who have vacant derelict buildings to secure the building to prevent this kind of damage taking place.

“Thank god that there were no lives lost and I’d like to thank the fire crews and emergency services for coming out, it’s unfortunate that they couldn’t have been at home in their houses and that they had to be out dealing with this nonsense.”

Anybody who was in the area at the time and noted any unusual activity or who may be able to assist Gardaí in identifying this male, should contact Athboy Garda Station on 046 9432201 or Kells Garda Station on 046 9280820 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666111.