The vestry is gutted, the altar, baptistry and a pew have been damaged. Hymn-books and robes were used to start the fires.

The Gardai have assured rector Canon Paul Willoughby that this was not a sectarian act and they are following a definite line of enquiry. 

Bishop Colton and Canon Willoughby spent a considerable time at the church on Wednesday and both expressed gratitude to the local fire brigades and the Garda Siochana for all their efforts. The response time of the fire brigade saved the building from total destruction. 

The church will be unusable for the foreseeable future but the Southern Health Board, through Matron Ber. Power, has generously offered the parish the use of the chapel of St Joseph's Hospital until St Peter's is repaired.

Canon Willoughby and parishioners are moved by this gesture and also by the support and prayers offered by so many and by the interest and concern expressed by the media. He said: "We are thankful that no one was injured. Despite the heartache of seeing this beautiful church in this condition, we are still filled with hope. The Church is the people."