Galway Simon Community has expressed its sadness that its charity shop on Sean Mulvoy Road was broken into on Sunday night. While investigations are ongoing, it would appear that the intruder was looking for cash on the premises.
As cash is removed from the premises each evening, it seems that the intruder left without stealing anything. However, the damage that was done to the premises will cost hundreds of euro to repair.
The intruder gained access by smashing the front window of the premises with a brick and immediately made their way to the till. Security personnel and members of Galway Simon staff were immediately notified by the alarm company and were on site within minutes. Gardaí were notified and attended the scene immediately and follow up enquiries are being carried out today.
Karen Golden, CEO of Galway Simon said they are very disheartened and saddened that someone would break into and attempt to steal from their charity shop.
“It is very upsetting for our volunteers and staff who run the shop. The team work very hard to raise money to support our services for people facing the trauma of homelessness.
“While no money was taken there is the cost to repair the damage and the loss of income as the shop has to remain closed this morning while we carry out repairs and the Gardaí carry out forensic investigation.
“We’d like to thank the security firm and the local Gardaí for taking swift action last night and our own team for coordinating efforts to get the shop back up and running as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, we had to close for the day while work is underway to repair the damage, but we look forward to welcoming customers back to our shop as soon as possible. Thankfully this is a very rare incident.” she added.
A spokesperson for the local Gardaí said “We were contacted early this morning following a break in at the Galway Simon Shop on Sean Mulvoy Road. Investigations are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact us on 091 538000.”
