Parish ‘tired of disrespect by a small few’ after tree is vandalised

A PARISH is “tired of the disrespect shown by a small few” after a tree, which was planted to commemorate people who died from drug addiction, was vandalised on church grounds last week.

The Echo understands two young males destroyed the tree on Wednesday, October 16.

Ballyfermot Assumption Parish took to social media to make a “reluctant post” as they “love Ballyfermot, and it’s filled with the best and finest of good people.”

“But I’m getting tired of some of the disrespect sometimes shown by a small few on our church grounds, and in other public places,” said the parish.

Sharing an image of what remains of the tree, the parish said it was planted on church grounds in June 2023, at the annual Service of Commemoration and Hope, in memory of those who died as a consequence of drug addiction.

“Yesterday evening, Wednesday, October 16, a couple of young lads decided to break it in two, smash it off the walls of the church, and destroy it.

“For what . . . for fun? Shame on you.

“Rest in peace and dignity those for whom it was planted, and bless their families,” said the parish.

Cllr Daithí Doolan (SF), who attended the planting ceremony last year, was dismayed at discovering the destruction, and hopes a new tree can be replanted.

“This is very sad. I attended the planting of the tree.

“To see the tree damaged is very upsetting for everyone indeed, particularly those who have lost loved ones to drug addiction,” said Cllr Doolan.

“I would strongly urge those involved to take a step back and reflect on the awful damage done.

“I hope a new tree is replanted and sends a message of hope and support to those battling addiction is our community.”