UL students have been offered counselling and other supports following the fallout from the controversial party
“STRESSED” Limerick students have been advised to seek help after an incident in a College Court residence made national coverage.
Councillor Ursula Gavan spoke to Limerick Live this Thursday morning about the effects this exposure may have on the students involved.
While she called out the behaviour of the students involved as “absolutely outrageous” she did urge students who may be feeling the pressure of the exposure to “reach out” if they are being affected.
She told Limerick Live: “I do think a lot of them will be very anxious and nervous I do believe that.
“I do believe that they will have a support structure around them as well. UL have a very good support structure in that, and they can approach anybody on campus as well regarding that as well.
“If they are feeling any stress about the whole situation I would urge them to reach out. You know we have the chaplaincy, we have the counselling services here, and any lecturer, staff member is very approachable on campus as well.”
Footage of the incident has gone viral on social media. Videos portray young people causing major damage to the house located in the College Court estate, which is popular with students attending the nearby University of Limerick.
Comments on the range of videos that remain online are largely negative, with many dubbing the incident “disgraceful”.
As well as being a local councillor, Ms Gavan also works as an administrator for UL.
She told Limerick Live the event has effected the entire UL student body not just the perpetrators: “A lot of them are mindful that they’re rent could go up next year, they’re mindful that landlords could pull out of the area as well after seeing the destruction and they’re not going to stay in the area.”
A spokesperson for UL Student Life said in a statement via email to UL students: “I am reaching out to you directly today as we know that many of our students will be feeling a lot of anxiety, concern, worry and even frustration after the events that have unfolded in College Court this week.
“While we are deeply shocked and disappointed at the allegations of any students causing criminal damage or engaging in anti-social behaviour, we know that this behaviour does not reflect the vast majority of students, who are respectful and responsible members of the local community.
“UL Student Life plays a vital role in supporting, guiding, and advising all of our students and we want to make you aware that there are supports available to any student who has been affected, either directly or indirectly, by this incident.”
Thousands of euros worth of damage – including a smashed window due to a bookshelf being thrown through the glass – was caused to the property in the housing estate.
Gardaí are now appealing for witnesses from the event to come forward.
