Several schools in Carlow remain shut after receiving threatening email
More than 10 primary schools in Carlow have closed today after they received a threatening email from an "unidentified source."
Principal at St Joseph's National School, Fergal Browne told KCLR that the correspondence, coming from a generic Gmail account, made claims of a potential shooting. "I'd imaging it is a hoax," he said.
An Garda Shíochána said it is aware of a communication that has been sent to a number of educational establishments in Co. Carlow today, Wednesday 27 May 2026. It did not confirm the nature of the threat.
It said gardaí are currently assessing the contents and credibility of that communication and senior garda leadership have opened communication with the affected educational establishments.
In the interests of safety Ballyconnell NS, Scoil Mhuire gan Smál, St Laserian's NS, Rathvilly primary school, Scoil Molaise in Old Leighlin, Scoil Mhuire Lourdes, Rathmore NS, Drumphea school, and St Columba's decided to close. Students were either told not to come in or will be sent home by 11am. St Fiacc's NS told parents that they were remaining open but parent's were permitted to collect their children if they wished.
Askea NS said they remain open after receiving the email as gardaí had instructed them it was safe to do so.
Gaelscoil Eoghain Uí Thuairisc said they had not received an email but were aware of the ongoing situation. They said the school remained open today.
