Calls for action after historic cemetery vandalised again

FURTHER damage to an historic cemetery in Clondalkin will lead to the disappearance of local heritage unless action is taken, according to Cllr Francis Timmons.

Mount St Joseph Cemetery, which has suffered vandalism attacks frequently over the years, was once again damaged recently.

Clondalkin Tidy Towns reported a “huge amount of criminal damage yet again” at the site, which is a Protected Structure

Representatives have previously asked Sth Dublin County Council (SDCC) to intervene to protect the site.

Cllr Timmons (Ind) said: ‘’Despite assurances, no repairs have been carried out. The graveyard has deteriorated more since I called for a meeting with SDCC. Bit by bit, SDCC are allowing our heritage to disappear.

In recent years, vandals have knocked over headstones and sprayed graffiti.

Clondalkin Tidy Towns took over the mantle of cleaning the site, obtaining permission from owners Kelland Homes in 2013, to restore the graveyard.

Regarding the recent vandalism, Cllr Timmons said the headstones are being used as missiles.”

“The historic tablet is being used as target practice. Brackets and locks broken, parts of gravestones in the crypts with gas cannisters, litter, graffiti, broken furniture etc. My previous calls to protect and secure Mount St Joseph Cemetery fell on deaf ears. I once again ask that the SDCC take immediate action before there is nothing left to protect.’’

Timmons is working with Clondalkin Tidy Towns and the Joe Williams archive group to hold an event at the graveyard at 12 noon on Sunday, June 19, to mark the bicentenary of the first burial.