Primary school is evacuated after ‘major gas leak’

Children and staff in both Scoil Aine Naofa and St Thomas' JNS in Lucan, Co Dublin, had to be collected immediately from school this morning following the incident.

Emergency services are currently on the site and no phones are being permitted on the grounds for safety reasons.

No injuries have been reported and parents are being told that coats and school bags are to be collected tomorrow.

In notices shared by Cllr Vicki Casserly, the school contacted parents and guardians with the urgent message: "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," it added.

Cllr Casserly praised the school and emergency services for their fast action this morning.

"I think a gas main was hit and there was an evacuation of the two schools, there was just a big bang.

"The evacuation and the response by both the school and emergency services was incredible. The children were brought out safely and quickly. Parents were notified instantly too.

"It was a bit frightening for the kids, but the school staff and parents kept calm and handled the situation as best as they could. They kept the kids feeling comfortable and not scared."

Just before 10.30am Dublin Fire Brigade posted on social media to say "a gas main was struck near Esker Drive off the R120".

"Traffic restrictions in place, avoid if possible. One fire engine remains on scene," it added.

Gardaí added that the road closures are due to be lifted shortly.

A statement from Dublin City Council added: "Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) is currently working with Gas Networks Ireland and An Garda Siochana near Esker Drive in Lucan after a gas main was struck.

"DFB was called at 9.29am and, as a precaution, a number of buildings have been evacuated. One fire engine remains at the incident to support scene safety and firefighters will continue assist the other agencies in attendance."

More to follow...