Anger at Belturbet ‘Dreamscape’ vandalism

Turbet Island features a series of 13 new prints by local artist Jackie O’Neill.

Locals have expressed anger and dismay at recent vandalism caused to the Turbet Island Dreamscape Trail.

The most recent incidents of vandalism, spray-painted scrawling on several of the wonderful outdoor art exhibition boards, occurred towards the end of last weekend.

The trail through Turbet Island features a series of 13 new prints by local artist Jackie O’Neill.

Her illustrations are also in the bird boxes, made by Belturbet Men’s Shed, and dotted around the walk.

A bird box containing one of these artworks was previously damaged back in late June.

Local Independent Councillor Brendan Fay encouraged anyone with information about who might be behind the vandalism to contact Belturbet Garda Station on 0499522122.

“This is the latest in a spate of criminal damages done to public amenities in our county lately,” he said in a post shared on social media. “If this symbol "WAK" is a clue to who it was or you have information, please contact Belturbet Garda Station on 0499522122.”

He concluded: “Don't let them away with it.”

Under the post, one person stated: “Walked it today absolutely disgusting that people just can't leave things alone.”

Another noted: “Should have a garda do patrol on foot around the town, might not help too much but a start.”