Gardaí are investigating an incident where a petrol bomb was allegedly thrown at a former school in Ballincollig, Co Cork. 

Reports say three people wearing balaclava masks were seen smashing windows at the former Gaelscoil Uí Ríordáin while trying to set it ablaze shortly after midnight on Friday morning. 

Gardaí said they are investigating an incident of criminal damage by fire and that a technical examination of the site took place yesterday. 

Work had begun in recent days to make the building suitable to accommodate Ukrainian refugees. 

Cork City Councillor Colm Kelleher said investigations have not yet shown “the motive of the attackers” and speculation is not helpful. 

“Whether it’s something to do with possibly an anti-Ukrainian sentiment or whether it’s to do with anti-social behaviour,” he said. “It's just a bunch of idiotic youths."

“We appeal for calm and to allow Gardaí to carry out their investigation.” 

Anyone with information regarding the alleged incident can contact Ballincollig Garda Station at 021 421 4680, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.