Key facts
- Education Minister Paul Givan deemed the email not a viable threat.
- The email was sent to 160 schools across Northern Ireland.
- Some schools closed, while others remained open seeking PSNI advice.
- Principals reported a lack of clear guidance from educational authorities.
An email sent to 160 schools in Northern Ireland, claiming an explosive device was present, is not being treated as a viable threat, according to Education Minister Paul Givan. Givan stated the email caused "huge alarm" and condemned the "level of disruption caused to young people's education." Some schools closed as a result, while others sought advice from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) before deciding to remain open. Principals, including Claire Robinson of Holy Evangelists' Primary School and Emma Quinn of Rathcoole Primary School, expressed frustration over a lack of clear guidance from the Education Authority and CCMS, stating they were left to make critical safety decisions. The PSNI confirmed it received reports and is conducting urgent inquiries, liaising with the schools involved.