Griffin condemns felling of cross on Carrauntoohil as an act of shameless vandalism

Fine Gael TD for Kerry, Brendan Griffin, has today (Saturday) condemned the cutting down of the cross at the summit of Carrauntoohil as an act of shameless vandalism. Climbers discovered the cross some distance away from its perch this afternoon.

“This is an appalling act of shameless vandalism. The cross at the top of Carrauntoohil was in place since 1976. It is a metal structure and appears to have been cut with an angle grinder. Hauling such a piece of equipment to the top of Ireland’s highest mountain would not be easy. It would require considerable preparation, suggesting this was a well-planned act of destruction.

“The cross served as a focal point for climbers upon reaching the summit and had, in its own way, become a landmark. Regardless of what people’s views on religion are, all would agree that this is a totally senseless act that services no purpose except needless destruction.

“I welcome the news that the Gardai are investigating and I will be working with the relevant bodies to ensure the cross is erected again.”