One of the smashed lights

‘Senseless vandalism’ to Nun’s Walk lights referred to gardaí

The vandalism of newly-installed lighting on the Nun's Walk at Ballyjamesduff has been described as "extremely disappointing".

The damage, discovered last week, February 14, has since been referred to An Garda Síochána for investigation.

A spokesperson for Cavan County Council said of the damage to the "valuable community amenity", adjacent to the County Museum, was "senseless vandalism".

"It is extremely disappointing that this valuable community amenity has been the target of senseless vandalism," said the spokesperson.

They added: "This facility has been provided for the entire community of Ballyjamesduff to enjoy and it is regrettable that a small minority of individuals have shown such disrespect for their town and their neighbours. The matter has been referred to An Garda Síochána for investigation."

It is not the first time the Nun's Walk facility has been targetted.

In 2018, locals in Ballyjamesduff were left dismayed after 10 graves in the Poor Clare's cemetery were vandalised.

The legacy of the Poor Clare order of nuns in the south Cavan town dates back to 1872, before the convent was sold to Cavan County Council to house the new County Museum in 1992.

The damage prompted an investment in new lighting and the gates on the walk entering the cemetery to be locked.

In November 2020, several thousands worth of damage was caused to a sensory garden designed to be accessible by persons of all abilities.

The new sensory garden, which has yet to be officially opened, was developed by Cavan Autism Parents Support (CAPS) and was completely wheelchair accessible.

Only in June last year did gardaí urge people to act responsibility after broken glass and discarded rubbish were left along the Nun's Walk in Ballyjamesduff following reports of alleged anti-social behaviour in the area.

Gardaí came across the mess when patrolling the area.