There will be no Christmas Day celebrations at Waterford Institute of Technology this year.
That’s the stark warning being sent out to students by WIT Students’ Union President Conor Doyle.
The Christmas Day event, which has grown into an annual booze fest at the college, attracted national media attention last year when 31 arrests were made.
Following the mayhem which surrounded the “festivities”, measures are being taken to curb such incidences from occurring again.
“It was never actually organised by anyone,” stated Mr Doyle.
“The college bar opened at the same time as every other day, but the tradition just grew and grew.”
The event normally takes place on the first Wednesday in December.
Last year, residents in neighbouring estates endured much anti-social behaviour, with significant damage caused to property.
Many around the city spoke of feeling intimidated by intoxicated revellers.
Mr Doyle says the union does not want to have to defend themselves again this year.
“The Students’ Union never had any association with it,” said Mr Doyle.
“Our President last year was attacked and verbally abused for what went on,” he added.
He stressed that the problem rested largely with the influx of non-WIT students onto the campus for the day, and stated that they caused the majority of the trouble last year.
Consultations have taken place between the Students’ Union and Gardaí, and residents of Lismore Park and Templars Hall.
“There will probably be some sort of alternative event this year, but the bar won’t open until at least the afternoon, if at all,” he warned.
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