Number Of NI Primary Schools Receive Further 'Malicious Calls'

A number of primary schools in Northern Ireland have received further "malicious calls".

Pupils and staff at Kilmaine Primary school in Bangor, Co Down, were evacuated and other schools have also been affected.

Chief Superintendent Garry Eaton said: "PSNI are investigating a further series of malicious communications to schools across Northern Ireland today. At this stage there is no information to suggest the incidents are terrorist-related, however enquiries continue to establish the facts. We continue to investigate who is responsible and whether these incidents are linked to similar calls made to seven schools earlier this week."

Omagh County Primary School has also been affected.

The school posted on Facebook: "Security alert in the school - all children are safe and sound at the high school. No plans as yet to send children home. Awaiting instructions at present, will keep you all posted."

Education Minister, Peter Weir, said: "I am aware of a series of malicious calls that have been made to schools across Northern Ireland this week, most recently today. I utterly condemn these incidents which have only served to disrupt the teaching of some of the very youngest children in our education system.

"Schools have policies and procedures in place for dealing with such incidents and I commend them for taking prompt precautionary measures to ensure the safety of all children."

Alliance North Down MLA Stephen Farry slammed those responsible for the malicious calls.

Mr Farry said: "Whoever is behind these threats needs to stop immediately.

"It is beyond any reason or logic for people to send such threats, particularly to primary schools where so many young people will be affected and have their education significantly disrupted.

"Whatever goal those behind the threats are looking to achieve will not be helped by these malicious actions. My thoughts are with all those affected and I wish to commend staff at the schools, who have acted with bravery to ensure the safety of the pupils.

"I urge anyone with information about these incidents to contact police immediately."

(CD)