Vandalism that was carried out on new toilets in St Anne's Park in Raheny in Dublin has been described as "appalling".
A long-running campaign to have toilets placed in the park came to an end last week after two eco-toilets were installed.
The toilets are now not in use after being vandalised.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Labour Councillor Ali Field said: "We're all devastated in the community."
"So many clubs in the area, Scoil Uí Chonaill, Raheny GAA, Raheny United, they all use the park. We have visitors coming to the park and teams travelling over.
"It's really appalling what has happened."
Firefighters from Kilbarrack responded to reports of a fire at the new public toilets in St Annes Park.
— Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) October 26, 2025
The fire was extinguished shortly after arrival and further damage was prevented. pic.twitter.com/0GFafhakJG
Ms Field said it was likely that the toilets would have to be replaced.
"I would say definitely some need replacing ... these eco toilets have gone in elsewhere and there's not been an issue with them," she said.
"This campaign has been going on for years. I'm four years on it, and other councillors are longer on this. It's just devastating the community."
Ms Field encouraged parents to check in with their children to prevent them engaging in such incidents.
"I'd like to appeal to any parents out there, who are your kids hanging around with? What are they doing?
"They can easily get into the wrong gang ... Check your children and see where they are and who they're hanging around with," she said.
We're deeply disappointed and angered by the vandalism of the new toilets in St. Anne’s Park facilities our community fought hard for and our kids needed. We remain determined to improve local spaces for our young people. Our community deserves better. #community pic.twitter.com/FWkSmjZ24y
— Barry Heneghan TD (@BarryHeneghan2) October 26, 2025
Dublin Bay North TD Barry Heneghan said the vandalism represents "an attack on our community" and shows "complete disrespect for public spaces, local volunteers, and the huge efforts made to improve facilities for everyone".
Mr Heneghan said the toilet facilities were the result of "relentless community campaigning" and were "badly needed to support young people in sport and the families who come to cheer them on".
He said the installers of the toilets told him they can be salvaged following the fire.
Mr Heneghan called on anyone with information to contact gardaí.
