Vandalism of church graveyard condemned

A TYRONE priest has dismissed claims that a number of unmarked graves in the cemetery at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Stewartstown have been disturbed for new burials, following recent reports of vandalism in the cemetery.

The PSNI are currently investigating reports of vandalism which are believed to have taken place over night on the night of March 7 when two marble pillars were damaged and a further two pillars were stolen, but later located.

Parish priest, Fr Eugene O’Neill, described those responsible for the damage as ‘some sort of vigilante marshals’ and insisted that all ground had been tested in St Mary’s Cemetery and that no existing unmarked grave had ever been, or would ever be, disturbed.

He further stated that those who suggest otherwise were ‘false in what they say’.

In a statement that was posted on social media, Fr O’Neill said, “It’s testament to the vast majority of good people in this parish that graves are so well-maintained.

“Unfortunately, a few people lack the decency of most. This week a grave surround was being installed in St Mary’s cemetery, sadly for imminent use, on ground that has been tested and has never been used for burial and which interfered with no other grave.

“During the night, a few brave and mindless thugs took it upon themselves to smash the granite surround and steal parts of it believing themselves to be some sort of vigilante marshals of the cemetery.”

Regarding the damaged grave, Fr O’Neill said that police have been notified, had visited the graveyards and had begun a criminal investigation into vandalism and theft, and that they were confident that they would have sufficient evidence to proceed.

Fr O’Neill further stated that, while those involved may think they are ‘heroes’ in a ‘false cause’, all they had done was bring unnecessary pain and distress to others.

Meanwhile, local councillor, Dan Kerr, has said that whoever is responsible for the damage should consider airing their grievances directly, instead of destroying property.

He said, “The vandalism of someone’s final resting place is a very sensitive issue.

“It should not, and will not, be tolerated in our community.”