'Bedlam and chaos' in schools due to threat sent by email

A teacher has described their school as "bedlam and chaos" as parents collect their children early from school, fearing the realisation of a threat sent to schools by email.

Two emails, sent by a Gmail account holder to an estimated 16 schools before class started this morning, allegedly contained threats of shootings to multiple primary schools across Carlow. Secondary schools were apparently not affected by the email.

Gardaí were immediately notified of the threat and are currently investigating the contents and credibility of the email.

Schools who remained open have told their students that it is too warm to play outside and have increased security measures. Gardaí are visiting schools to reassure them and have increased their policing presence across the county today.

Three schools have reportedly closed after receiving the email, and others have made it an option for parents to collect their children early from school.

There was widespread panic on social media after reports of the threatening email made it online. 

Senator Patricia Stephenson expressed concern over the threats, which resulted what she described as "significant distress for children, parents, teachers and the wider school community”.

“My thoughts are with all of the school communities affected particularly the children who have missed out on important end of year activities and school tours as a result of this frightening disruption.”

She acknowledged the "calm and professional response by the school's leadership and by An Garda Síochána this morning.”

“Schools should always be safe places for children to learn, grow and enjoy their childhood free from fear,” sen Stephenson said.