GAA club engulfed in flames in suspected arson attack
Some of the damage following the fire. Pic: Cllr Arder Carson
A suspected arson attack on a west Belfast GAA club was an example of 'reckless stupidity', a Sinn Féin councillor has said.
Damage was sustained to a club shop and scoreboard at Lámh Dhearg CLG in Hannahstown, on the outskirts of Belfast on Saturday evening.
Photographs taken during the incident appear to show the shop engulfed in flames.
The fire in Hannahstown. Pic: Cllr Arder Carson
News in 90 Seconds - Sunday July 13
The incident comes just hours before the GAA club were set to begin their annual summer camp on the premises.
It is understood the NI Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) attended the incident.
In a statement released following the fire, Lámh Dhearg CLG said they were 'deeply concerned'.
"As our club makes preparations for hosting a wide range of kids camps and championship games over the summer period our club facilities have been deliberately targeted this weekend,' said a spokesperson.
Some of the damage following the fire. Pic: Cllr Arder Carson
"Our club shop, scoreboard and Pitch in Patrons signage board which celebrated the recent opening of our new pitch were all destroyed in a fire.
'The club has made great efforts in recent years to improve our club facilities for our members and local community and are deeply concerned by this act of vandalism at a time when our facilities are needed the most.
"This event has made us more determined to make good the damage and to continue to provide the best facilities for the benefit of so many in our community.'
Councillor Alder Carson, who posted pictures from the incident to his Facebook page, said the incident should be 'condemned without reservation'.
"Lámh Dhearg supported by it members and the local community work relentlessly to provide top class facilities and services that give hope and opportunity to young and old alike,' he said.
"This is an attack on everyone of them.
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'Lighting any fire in in the open air in this weather beggars belief but this is a different level of reckless stupidity.
'Anyone who has any information should bring it forward so that those responsible can be brought to account.'
The PSNI has been approached for comment.
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