UL warns anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated after vacant house is destroyed

University of Limerick's deputy president Professor Ann Ledwith reminded all UL students that they are 'expected to act as an ambassador for UL', both on and off campus. 

The University of Limerick has warned that anti-social behaviour “is simply unacceptable”, as garda investigations continue after a house was destroyed allegedly by students near the campus.

The incident occurred at a vacant property in College Court in the early hours of Wednesday, October 7, where a house party took place. The students are alleged to have caused thousands of euros worth of damage to the property.

In an email sent to students this Thursday morning, deputy president Professor Ann Ledwith said she was “very concerned” about the reports of the incident in a nearby housing estate, which gardaí are “actively investigating”.

“While the identity of those involved in the incident has yet to be ascertained, let me be very clear — this sort of behaviour is simply unacceptable from any member of our community,” Ms Ledwith said.

“UL strongly promotes responsible behaviour and positive engagement among students, the vast majority of whom are respectful and valued members of the local community.

“Acts of anti-social behaviour, including property damage, public disorder, and other actions that impact negatively upon local residents, and landlords are a matter of very serious concern. This type of anti-social behaviour not only damages property, but it also damages our reputation and our valued community relationships,” she said.

Ms Ledwith reminded all UL students that they are “expected to act as an ambassador for UL”, both on and off campus.

Videos widely shared on social media show two young men throwing furniture through a window, shattering the glass, while others are heard laughing.

The footage shows extensive damage inside the house, including holes in walls, and damage to part of the ceiling. Some of the social media clips have since been taken down.

One video was filmed by a young woman using Sabrina Carpenter's song House Tour, part of a social media trend in which users showcase their homes.

Gardaí are now seeking witnesses who were in the vicinity at the time, or anyone who may have camera footage of the incident, to contact them.

A Garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí attended the scene and no persons were present inside the domestic residence, which had undergone significant criminal damage. A technical examination of the scene has been conducted.” 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Henry Street Garda Station on [phone], the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.