School closed for a day due to alleged hoax bomb

ONE of the top second level schools in the west of Ireland is closed today due to an alleged hoax bomb.

Hundreds of pupils at St. Nathy’s College, Ballaghaderreen, were sent home this morning following the incident.

Gardai searched the extensive building but nothing was found.

However, the school, which has in the region of 600 pupils, is to remain closed for the day.

Parents of pupils received test messages around 8.30 this morning advising them that the school was closing “due to unforeseen circumstances.”

Parents were asked to collect pupils if possible.

It is understood the school will be open for classes as normal tomorrow.

In a statement, the college confirmed the school was evacuated because "An Garda Siochana informed us they had received information that an alleged device had been left in the school."

"The decision was taken to ensure the safety of students and staff," the statement added.

Leaving Cert mock exams cancelled today as a result of the incident are being rescheduled.