A baby memorial garden in Armagh’s Palace Demesne has been targeted by vandals, sparking anger and deep upset among bereaved families.
Armagh City councillor Sarah Duffy said she had been contacted by parents who discovered memorial ornaments removed, plants uprooted and “deeply personal items” damaged or discarded in the specially designated space.
“I am saddened and angered that this sacred space has been targeted,” she said.
“This garden is a place of reflection, remembrance and comfort for families experiencing unimaginable loss. To see it treated in this way is distressing for those affected and for the wider community.”
Cllr Duffy said her thoughts were with the families impacted, insisting “no one should face further hurt in a place meant for peace”.
She added that she will be working with council officials to ensure the area is restored as quickly as possible and to look at measures to better protect it in future.
Concluding, she appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
“I would urge anyone with information to report it. Spaces of such emotional importance must be respected and protected,” she said.
