Fire at East Cork playground a 'mindless act of vandalism'

The playground is expected to be out of action for several weeks

A local councillor believes the repairs needed for the playground could be in the five figures.

A fire at a beloved playground in Carrigtwohill on Sunday evening has been described as a "mindless act of vandalism". 

The incident happened at around 8pm after a piece of equipment in the area was set on fire. 

The equipment was destroyed, as well as a sizeable amount of the playground on the grounds of the community centre. 

Local councillor Anthony Barry said the playground will now be out of action for what he believes will be several weeks. 

"The community are livid, particularly the parents of the children who use the playground," he said.  

"An amazing number of people and children use this playground in Carrigtwohill and from across East Cork, and you would have people in there from the morning until the evening.

"It is a mindless act of vandalism," Mr Barry added. 

He added that he believes the repairs needed for the playground could be in the five figures and that it would be weeks before it is reopened to the public. 

A garda spokesperson said enquiries into the incident are ongoing.