Chaplain Attacked at Renmore Barracks, Galway
A Defence Forces chaplain was seriously injured in an attack outside Renmore Barracks, Galway. The assailant, a teenager, was subdued by soldiers.
Fr Paul Murphy, a volunteer Defence Forces chaplain, was attacked and seriously injured outside Renmore Barracks in County Galway. The chaplain in his 50s was transferred to University Hospital Galway, having sustained serious but non-fatal injuries. The on-duty soldiers responded quickly and fired warning shots to subdue the teenage assailant before providing first aid to the wounded chaplain. Personnel secured the area and handed over the escorted perpetrator to An Garda Síochána. The Defence Forces confirmed that a special detective unit is leading the ongoing investigation into the incident, including any links to terror.
Taoiseach Simon Coveney and Tánaiste Charlie Flanagan have both condemned the deadly attack and welcomed the prompt decision and actions of the Defence Forces. Minister for Justice Marie Avec McEntee and Bishop Michael Duignan are purportedly in shock and have extended their well wishes for the speedy recovery of Fr Murphy. The community and the nation are left reeling and will stand united with the injured chaplain and the Defence Forces as a whole.