Schools across Northern Ireland, particularly in Enniskillen, faced unexpected disruptions this morning, March 24, 2025, following the receipt of a suspicious email that triggered a swift security alert. The incident led to temporary closures of several schools while police assessed the situation.
Erne Integrated College, Enniskillen Royal Grammar School, and Enniskillen Integrated Primary School and Nursery were among those affected. Responding to the alert, local police quickly arrived at the scene, with a police presence marking the area throughout the morning as inquiries began. Thankfully, Erne Integrated College later confirmed that they would reopen.
In a statement released on social media, officials at Erne Integrated College noted, "Due to a security alert this morning, traffic around the school and Erne Integrated Primary is extremely backed up. We are open as normal, after the all clear was given by the PSNI." This provided some reassurance to parents, who struggled with heavy traffic congestion while dropping off their children.
News of the security alert spread quickly, with reports indicating that schools in Enniskillen, Strabane, and Ballycastle had received emails that caused alarm. The PSNI confirmed to ‘The Nolan Show’ on BBC Radio Ulster that they were investigating the circumstances of the threatening communication. "Police received reports today of an email sent to a number of schools in Enniskillen, Strabane, and Ballycastle," a police statement explained. "As a result of this email, we are conducting enquiries and liaising with the schools in question and also with the Metropolitan Police in London."
As the situation unfolded, Education Minister Paul Givan responded to the incidents, saying, "I condemn the disruption caused this morning after an email was sent to a number of schools across Northern Ireland. I welcome the speedy response from the PSNI who have now assessed the threat and explained to schools they do not need to take any action as a result of this hoax." His remarks underscored the significance of swift action amidst community worries about safety in educational environments.
In total, nine schools were forced to close temporarily due to the email threat. The PSNI later provided a significant update during the midday hours, stating they were treating the matter as a hoax. Police Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney commented, "We take incidents of this nature very seriously and we understand the concern in the community, not to mention the disruption it has caused in each of the school communities and for students and parents." This reassurance was crucial for anxious families waiting for clarity on the situation.
Interestingly, three of the Enniskillen schools — specifically, Erne Integrated College, Enniskillen Royal Grammar School and Enniskillen Integrated Primary School — were able to remain open even as other schools closed their doors in Ballycastle and Strabane due to the email. Schools such as Cross and Passion College and St Patrick's & St Brigid's Primary School reported closures, prompting parents to seek alternative arrangements for their children.
Political reactions poured in throughout the day, with Sinn Féin councillor Paul Boggs condemning the disruption as "disgraceful and completely unacceptable." He expressed understanding for the concerns shared by parents and students alike. Likewise, North Antrim MP and Traditional Unionist Voice leader Jim Allister expressed dismay, stating on X, "Appalling to see NI schools closed because of a security threat, including Cross & Passion College in Ballycastle in North Antrim." Statements like these reflect a broader unease in the community concerning safety protocols in educational settings.
DUP MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, Deborah Erskine, characterized the situation as "a very scary incident" for those who work within the affected schools. Her urgent remarks highlighted the anxiety stemming from such threats, prompting discussions on security measures across schools in the region. She noted, "Sadly the individual behind it sought to cause havoc across many schools in NI and elsewhere."
In the midst of these disruptions, local news outlets provided updates on the schools’ status. As well as online alerts from schools, reports revealed that Erne Integrated College faced significant traffic congestion, illustrating the challenges parents encountered while ensuring the safety of their children amid uncertainties.
Overall, today’s events underlined the need for vigilance and communication within the school community. Parents were urged to stay informed through official school channels regarding any further updates. The PSNI has encouraged everyone to remain observant and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities. Enquiries into the nature and origin of the email threat continue as police work to guarantee the safety and security of the community.
The communities impacted by today’s events continue to rally around their schools, thankful that the incident was resolved without harm yet wishing for better security assurances in the future. Ensuring the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and staff remains the absolute priority amidst ongoing concerns.
