A REVIEW of CCTV footage is underway after vandals caused significant damage to the Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) at Barna Sports Park, forcing its closure and leaving the volunteer-run facility facing a potentially costly repair bill.

The incident follows a spate of graffiti attacks, which has now escalated to the sports surface itself, rendering it unsafe and unusable.

An assessment will be carried out to determine whether the damaged surface can be repaired, or if it will need to be replaced entirely, while CCTV footage will be reviewed and passed to Gardaí for investigation.

“Graffiti can be cleaned off reasonably quickly, but this latest incident has caused substantial surface damage, which has made the games area unsafe,” said Barna Sports Park Committee Member, Darragh Ó Tuairisc.

“We’ve had to close the area to carry out a risk assessment and review CCTV footage.”

He described the situation as “hugely disappointing” given the time, effort, and community spirit invested in maintaining the facility.

For Ó Tuairisc, the recurring incidents highlight a wider concern about respect for local amenities.

“It’s used by the greater Barna community and by families who visit the area,” he explained.

“Suddenly, it’s not available. The community has been crying out for more resources. When we finally have something, and then see it destroyed and taken out of use, it’s deeply disappointing. A huge amount of time and effort goes into maintaining it.”

He said the recent vandalism has deeply affected the volunteers who maintain the space.

“It’s absolutely rotten,” he continued.

“It’s hard on the volunteers who are just trying to ensure the facility is there for everyone. In recent months, the Under-12 area has been targeted with graffiti on the equipment, on the slide, and on the pirate ship. You can see how it grows from graffiti to vandalism. Where does it stop?”

He argued the situation highlights the need for mutual respect and community pride, reflecting on his own experience growing up in the area.

“When I was a kid, we had the tennis courts and then came the playground,” he said.

“My own family used the same facilities. It’s always been a great part of village life located right in the centre. That’s why it’s so disappointing to see it vandalised. If we don’t look after what we have and raise the next generation together, we’re in trouble,” he continued.

The MUGA and playground are especially important during midterm breaks when children are off school.

“This is a week when kids need the opportunity to make use of it, but that’s now gone,” he said.

On Halloween night, he described how the committee will conduct routine evening patrols, to deter antisocial behaviour, and underage drinking.

Security will also be in place at a cost that could otherwise go toward improvements, Ó Tuairisc explained.

Barna Sports Park receives support from Údarás na Gaeltachta, funding a caretaker for 20 hours a week for routine maintenance.

However, the current caretaker is retiring in December, and the committee is now seeking a replacement through the Community Employment Scheme, in partnership with Údarás and the Department of Social Protection.

If a new caretaker cannot be appointed, the park could face indefinite closure, due to insurance requirements.

“Without someone in that role, we won’t meet our insurance requirements, which could mean closing the park indefinitely,” he concluded.

“We need the community’s help to protect what we have.”

Pictured: The damaged caused to the surface of the tennis courts at Barna Sports Park.