A number of schools in Northern Ireland have closed due to a “security concern.” The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is currently investigating an email that was sent to schools in County Fermanagh, County Tyrone, and County Antrim, raising alarms about potential threats. Reports indicate that as many as nine schools might be affected by this security scare.
On March 24, 2025, PSNI officials stated they received notifications concerning the email sent to various educational institutions, specifically mentioning those located in Enniskillen, Strabane, and Ballycastle. Consequently, the police are in close proximity to the impacted schools and are collaborating with the Metropolitan Police in London in efforts to address the situation.
Holy Cross College in Strabane confirmed via social media that they had to close their doors for the day due to a security concern, advising parents to collect their children if they were already en route. A similar notice was issued by Cross and Passion College in Ballycastle, which also experienced the abrupt closure. “Unfortunately the school has had to close today due to a security concern,” Holy Cross College stated, echoing the sentiments of concern felt throughout the affected regions.
Although some schools opted for closures, Erne Integrated College in County Fermanagh managed to remain open after the PSNI provided an all-clear signal, despite heavy traffic congestion in the area due to the ongoing security alert.
DUP Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Deborah Erskine condemned the threats against the schools, describing the targeting of these educational institutions as “particularly reprehensible.” She further expressed her admiration for the school leadership, acknowledging their swift actions to ensure the safety of all pupils and staff. “Threats issued against what we believe to be nine schools across Northern Ireland are to be unequivocally condemned,” Erskine stated. “While we await more detail as to their credibility, such threats are unacceptable and have no place in our society.”
Erskine remarked on the importance of educational environments, emphasizing that “targeting schools – places of learning, personal growth, and friendship for young people – is particularly reprehensible.” She added, “No child should have their education disrupted in this manner, and no family should have to endure the fear and uncertainty caused by such reckless actions.” The MLA called for quick identification of the individuals responsible for the threats to restore peace and safety within the community.
Concerns echoed further from TUV leader and North Antrim MP Jim Allister, who voiced his discontent on social media regarding the closure of schools, specifically referencing Cross and Passion College. “Appalling to see NI schools closed because of a security threat, including Cross & Passion College in Ballycastle in North Antrim. I trust the police get on top of this situation quickly and that concerns of parents, staff and pupils can be allayed,” he stated.
Another local representative, DUP MLA Gary Middleton, also expressed his alarm about the widespread impact of the security threat, calling it “concerning that schools across NI have been affected.” He noted that an update from the PSNI and Education Authority was expected to be issued shortly regarding the situation.
In response to the unfolding incident, a spokesperson for the Education Authority confirmed that they are aware of the email targeting schools and are in contact with the PSNI, stating, “PSNI are conducting inquiries and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.”
As the situation continues to develop, authorities urge parents to remain vigilant and informed regarding the safety of local schools. The PSNI reassured communities that they are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of all educational institutions involved and are conducting thorough inquiries into the nature of the email threatening the schools.
As these events unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in educational settings and the profound impact that such threats can have on school communities. Amid fears and apprehensions sparked by such announcements, both educators and parents are left grappling with the concerns for their children’s safety and learning environments.
The continuing investigation into the email and the potential threats it implies highlights the necessity of ensuring secure environments for students and staff alike. Therefore, the PSNI's proactive approach, alongside support from local leaders, aims to mitigate these fears and provide clarity in this unsettling situation.
Schools are typically safe havens for learning and development, and when such threats arise, it is important for all stakeholders—be it police, school officials, or parents—to come together to safeguard the interests of the children. Swift action is crucial not just for clarifying this immediate threat, but also for maintaining the integrity of educational environments moving forward.
