STAFF AND STUDENTS at Riversdale Community College have been offered psychological support services this morning as the school reopened following yesterday’s shooting.
At approximately 3.40pm yesterday a lone gunman fired shots appearing to target a man in his 20’s who was waiting outside the school on the Blanchardstown Road North in the Corduff area.
Gardaí said a number of people were arrested at the scene, and released following searches. The gunman ran in the direction of Corduff Grove. No one was injured during the incident.
Gardaí believe a local gang feud in the area is the motive behind the shooting.
The Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB), the patron of Riversdale Community College, told TheJournal.ie that “all school activities are proceeding entirely as normal and will continue to do so”.
DDLETB said that it is currently providing advice to the teaching staff on how they, in turn, can provide support and advice to pupils.
Where it is necessary to offer specific counselling support to any individual pupils, in relation to yesterday’s incident, this will be provided.
‘Reckless attack’
The DDLETB said when the nature of the incident became apparent yesterday, the school requested all pupils to stay within the school for a period of time to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
The school also contacted parents and in due course, all pupils were able to leave as normal.
Superintendent William Carolan of Blanchardstown Garda Station condemned the “reckless attack” and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
In particular, he is appealing for anyone in the area of the community college between 3pm and 3.40pm to contact gardaí.
Anyone who drove along Blanchardstown Road North or Corduff Grove who may have dashcam footage is urged to make contact. Gardaí are also keen to hear from anyone who observed any usual activity in and around the school in recent days to come forward.
Those with information are urged to call Blanchardstown Garda Station on 01 666 9700, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
With reporting from Sean Murray
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