A FIRE that destroyed a Co Antrim primary school is being treated as arson.
The fire at Whitehouse primary school in the Doagh Road area of Newtownabbey, was discovered in the early hours of yesterday.
The Fire and Rescue Service said it fought hard to contain the blaze and to stop it spreading to nearby homes. The blaze began in a number of locations within the school buildings and was quickly fanned by a strong wind.
Commander Chris Kerr said: “Such was the strength of the wind and the ferocity of the blaze that fire was spreading through trees and large amounts of burning embers were falling on property around the area. We had to ask the police to evacuate some residents for their safety.’’
School principal David McConkey said: “It’s absolutely devastating. The parents, the pupils as well, have been in contact and they’re very upset.”
SDLP councillor Noreen McClelland said the destruction had been carried out by “low-lifes” engaged in “tit-for-tat” attacks.
“People living nearby had to be evacuated from their homes in the middle of the night . . . The people of Newtownabbey do not want these tit-for-tat arson attacks or to be gripped with the fear that they may happen again.”
The attack followed more than a week of attacks on churches, Orange Halls, GAA clubs and other properties throughout Co Antrim.
“The police are helpless without community help, so all community leaders, political representatives and people of influence have to take a stand against the arsonists on both sides and protect property and premises for the good of our children if nothing else,” Mrs McClelland added.
Alliance councillor Billy Webb condemned those who attacked the school. “Many local people visited the scene this morning and they are also shocked and annoyed at seeing the damage done. Most of the school has been destroyed and the priority is to get premises for use by early September when the pupils return after the school holiday.
“I spoke to a representative from the education board and she assured me that there would be accommodation for the children. This attack is obviously retaliation for other school damage in the area and I would appeal for those who are engaged in these senseless attacks to stop.”