Vandals threw paint at a Church of Ireland Sunday School building in Newtownbutler, Fermanagh, and caused damage inside. Police are treating the incident as a sectarian hate crime.

Fr Gary Donegan, a priest originally from the village, condemned the attack. He stated that children and places of worship must be protected. Donegan left Newtownbutler 43 years ago but maintains a strong connection to the area.

Donegan recalled his role in escorting schoolgirls through protests during the Holy Cross dispute in Ardoyne in 2001 and 2002. He noted that Church of Ireland parishioners from Newtownbutler offered support at that time.

Donegan described Newtownbutler as a community of good neighbours, not defined by sectarianism. He said the vandalism does not represent local residents.

In response, Donegan's father, Michael Donegan, aged 88, organised a fundraising coffee morning using his mobility scooter to consult local clergy. Fr Kevin Malcolmson agreed to back the event.

Fr Gary Donegan pledged £100 to the fundraiser and urged others to contribute. The coffee morning is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, at 11am in Newtownbutler Community Centre. Residents can attend with baked goods to support repairs and show solidarity.