Priest rushed to hospital after suffering ‘number of stab wounds’ in ‘very serious incident’ at Defence Forces Barracks
AN Army chaplain was stabbed repeatedly by a teenage boy outside a barracks in Galway.
The priest was attacked outside the gates of the Renmore Barracks shortly before 11pm last night.
It's understood that a number of warnings were given to the juvenile before the stabbing took place.
Five warning shots were fired by on duty Defence Forces personnel.
A spokesman for the Defence Forces this morning confirmed that this action was taken "in strict accordance with force protection protocols " after the priest was "assaulted by a male civilian".
Gardai, including members of the Garda Armed Support Unit, responded to the incident at approximately 10.45pm.
The priest, aged in his 50s, received a number of stab wounds during the incident and was provided with first aid at the scene.
He was taken to University Hospital Galway for treatment of injuries that are serious but not life-threatening.
A male teenager was restrained by members of the Defence Forces.
He was then arrested by Gardai at the scene.
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The suspect is currently detained at a Garda Station in the North Western Region.
Investigators will draft in specially trained detectives to carry out the questioning as the boy is a youth.
In a statement this morning, Gardai confirmed that an investigation into the incident is currently "ongoing".
The spokesperson added: "The scene is currently preserved and a technical examination will be carried out today by the Divisional Scenes of Crime Unit."
The army chaplain this morning confirmed that he is awaiting surgery in hospital and reassured the public that "all will be well".
Taking to social media, he said: "Friends, thank you for your prayers, love, and concern.
"Sorry that I can't reply to all messages and take all the calls coming my way. I'm doing okay; just awaiting surgery. All will be well."
'ARMY INTERVENTION WAS CRITICAL'
A spokesperson for the Irish Defence Forces said: "The soldiers on duty responded to the immediate threat with appropriate force to ensure the safety of personnel and secure the area.
"The assailant was quickly detained and handed over to An Garda Síochána, who are now conducting a full investigation into the incident.
"The injured Defence Forces member was provided with immediate first aid at the scene before being transported to hospital for further treatment.
"We can confirm that the victims injuries, while serious, are not life-threatening.
"The Defence Forces are committed to the safety and security of all personnel and will continue to cooperate fully with An Garda Siochana in their investigation."
Tanaiste Micheal Martin this morning condemned the "violent attack".
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The Minister for Defence said: "I commend the members of the Defence Forces on duty at the time, whose intervention was critical.
"Our thoughts are with the Defence Forces member injured in the attack.";