ATU Sligo and Martin Kenny statements as man arrested for brandishing a knife on campus

Both ATU Sligo and Sinn Fein TD for Sligo/Leitrim Martin Kenny have issued statements following the arrest of a man who brandished a knife on the campus earlier today.

"Today, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) experienced a concerning incident on our Sligo campus grounds. A member of the public gained unauthorised access and threatened students.

"Thankfully, due to the swift response of our security team and the prompt intervention of the Gardai, the situation was brought under control without any injuries.

"We want to thank our security team, students, and staff for their quick response to this incident.

"The Gardai responded promptly to the situation and have taken the suspect into custody at Sligo Garda station. We are cooperating fully with the authorities, and urge anyone with relevant video footage to assist the Gardai by sending it directly to 085 870 2510 and avoiding sharing it on social media.

"As an institution, we take the safety and well-being of our students and staff very seriously. We are actively working to review and strengthen our security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

"For anyone affected by this incident, support is available through our student services. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need assistance or someone to talk to. You can contact Student Support at 071 9305463 or text "Crisis" for 24/7 support by texting "ATU" to 50808."

Sinn Féin TD Martin Kenny paid tribute to the quick thinking of Gardaí in Sligo after it emerged that a man was arrested on the ATU campus earlier today after approaching people in the area while brandishing a knife. 

Speaking after the incident, Teachta Kenny said, “First and foremost, I want to commend the quick response of both the ATU security personnel and Gardaí, as well as those in the vicinity who alerted emergency services.

“It is my understanding that a man gained access to the ATU campus earlier today and approached people in the area, while armed with the knife.

“ATU security and staff members and Gardaí were quickly on scene and took control of the situation.

“I would urge those who have footage or images of the incident to make contact with Gardaí in Sligo.  Furthermore, I would implore people not to share or re-share any images or footage of this incident on social media or messaging apps.

“It is important now for Gardaí to establish the background to this frightening incident, and I am assured that supports on campus are available for any students who may need it," he said.