Skeletal Remains Tampered with at Burial Site at De La Salle, Ballyfermot
General News
Tuesday 18th, June 2024
Videos of individuals tampering with ancient skeletal remains at a medical burial site have been condemned as "frightening and frustrating". The archaeological excavation, located at the former De La Salle monastery and primary school in Ballyfermot, is now under heightened security following the incident.
This comes a week after five historic mummified bodies were destroyed with an intentionally started fire at St. Michan's Church in Dublin, Ireland.
Footage shared online reveals a person removing a cover from a skeleton and touching its teeth, prompting widespread backlash. People Before Profit councillor Hazel de Nortuin addressed the situation on Newstalk Breakfast, stating: "It’s frightening and frustrating because of the historical aspect. I don’t think [the person who filmed it] thought the video would go as far and wide and shock people".
The National Museum of Ireland and the National Monuments Service have acknowledged the "alleged interference" and are actively monitoring the situation. The site, which was purchased by a private company a few years ago, dates back to approximately 600AD. Up to 16 skeletal remains have been discovered during the initial stages of a reconstruction planning process.
In response to the disturbance, Dublin City Council has closed off the rear part of the site for further investigation to protect the integrity of the archaeological finds. The measures aim to prevent further incidents and ensure the preservation of the site's significant historical value.
This comes a week after five historic mummified bodies were destroyed with an intentionally started fire at St. Michan's Church in Dublin, Ireland.
Footage shared online reveals a person removing a cover from a skeleton and touching its teeth, prompting widespread backlash. People Before Profit councillor Hazel de Nortuin addressed the situation on Newstalk Breakfast, stating: "It’s frightening and frustrating because of the historical aspect. I don’t think [the person who filmed it] thought the video would go as far and wide and shock people".
The National Museum of Ireland and the National Monuments Service have acknowledged the "alleged interference" and are actively monitoring the situation. The site, which was purchased by a private company a few years ago, dates back to approximately 600AD. Up to 16 skeletal remains have been discovered during the initial stages of a reconstruction planning process.
In response to the disturbance, Dublin City Council has closed off the rear part of the site for further investigation to protect the integrity of the archaeological finds. The measures aim to prevent further incidents and ensure the preservation of the site's significant historical value.
