School targeted after Ruane visit

The Sinn Fein assembly member had visited Millburn County Primary School in Coleraine to discuss a new building.

Principal John Platt said the school is in a "staunchly unionist community" and "a couple of individuals not terribly keen on change" were responsible.

He said he expected four stolen laptops to be returned within days.

The issue has been resolved by community leaders, he said.

"I was 100% certain her visit would cause problems, but if you set out trying to please everybody you shouldn't be leading a school," he said.

"Being a staunchly Protestant school, it was a big step for her to come here as well.

"Community leaders also made a big effort - flags were removed from around the school."

He said the attackers wanted to "send a message that we can make life difficult for you", but he was pleased it had been sorted out.

In a statement, Education Minister Catriona Ruane said: "I condemn all attacks on schools which only serve to disrupt the education of our children and divert resources away from the classroom."