Dublin primary schools evacuated after 'major gas leak'

Pupils and staff were safely evacuated as parents were instructed to collect their children immediately

Two primary schools in west Dublin were evacuated this morning after a major gas leak in the area.

A notice was sent to parents and guardians of pupils of Scoil Aine Naofa and St Thomas' JNS to collect their children immediately after the successful self-evacuation of all children.

Former Mayor of South Dublin and Councillor for Lucan LEA, Vicki Casserly, posted on social media: "Major Gas Leak in Scoil Aine and St Thomas. All safe. Safe Evacuation. Children to be collected urgently. No phones for safety on the grounds. Emergency services on site."

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Dublin Fire Brigade confirmed that it was working closely with Gas Networks Ireland, who responded immediately, after a third-party hit on a gas main near Esker Drive off the R120. The situation was made safe at 9.58am.

A statement from a Gas Networks Ireland spokesperson reads: "At 9:14am today, 7^th Oct, Gas Networks Ireland responded immediately to a report of third-party damage to a gas pipeline in Lucan, Co. Dublin. Gas Networks Ireland staff arrived on site at 9:28am and the situation was made safe at 9:58am."

Traffic restrictions were put in place and people were encouraged to avoid the area if possible. The latest update stated that one fire engine remained on scene.

The schools' notice to parents and guardians read: "There has been a major gas leak in Scoil Aine Naofa and St Thomas' JNS. All children have been evacuated and must be collected from the main entrance immediately.

"Coats and schoolbags to be collected tomorrow."

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