College principal disgusted with Republican graffiti

Republican lettering and green, white and gold paint, was found on buildings to the rear of Coleraine College at Carthall Road.

School principal, Mr Shane Laverty contacted the Times on Thursday to condemn those responsible.

“I would like to express my sense of disappointment towards those responsible for this attack.

“These people have nothing to offer this community, except further trouble and strife, and this can only be construed as an attempt to heighten tension within the local area.

“They are misguided in their actions, and should move on from the past.

“In this school there has been a great effort to improve relations and to raise the esteem of the school community.

“This effort will not falter and we will continue to provide a good education for all who enrol here.

“We have a Christian ethos which espouses the principle that we should love our neighbour, whoever that may be, and we will continue to work towards this end.

Mr Laverty went on: “In the last few months we have been getting work done to the school, both inside and out.

“I want to improve the ambiance of the building and the self esteem of the pupils and this is only having a negative effect.

“We have stepped up security at the school in light of the incident and we have reported it to police.”

He said Coleraine College accepted pupils from all backgrounds. “We have a multicultural’ make up”, said Mr Laverty.

In light of the incident, police in Coleraine have appealed for information and have asked the public to report any suspicious activity around schools.

Anyone who can help to identify those responsible is asked to get in touch with the police at Coleraine.

Commenting on the matter, Neighbourhood Inspector Catherine Magee said, “Few would disagree that the daubing of graffiti on schools is particularly disgraceful. This type of behaviour doesn’t reflect the wishes of the community, who view all schools as a real asset to the town.

“We all want the best for our children, and people need to realise that money spent repairing damage is money that could much better be spent on our children's education.

If you can help, the number to ring is 0845 600 8000, or email [email protected]

REPORT: Nichola Forgrave