Finaghy Primary updated parents on social media telling them that due to “unforeseen” events the school will be closed for pupil safety.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, school will be closed today, Friday 16th May,” said a school spokesperson.
“This is on the advice of the PSNI.
“We apologise for the inconvenience caused. Updates will be issued in due course.”
Police attended the scene in the Finaghy area on Friday morning.
Finaghy Primary had to close due to the security alert in south Belfast (Pic: Google Maps)
News Catch Up – Thursday 15 May
Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw has hit out at those behind the incident.
“The suspicious package was discovered close to Finaghy Primary School on Friday morning and following investigations, it was determined as a hoax,” she said.
“The surrounding area has been cordoned off, with the school closing for the day.
“I condemn those behind this incident in the strongest possible terms. Residents, businesses, commuters and schoolchildren now all have disruption to their day, with the school particularly affected,” said Ms Bradshaw.
“The fact this was a hoax lends a particularly sinister edge to these events. My thoughts are especially with the parents of Finaghy Primary School pupils, who are having to explain to pupils why their school is closed, and staff at the school, who will currently be managing this situation in a calm and professional manner.
“My thanks go to police and other agencies for their quick reaction, and I appeal for anyone with information to take it to the PSNI immediately.”
South Belfast MLA, Deirdre Hargey, also condemned those responsible for the incident which caused significant disruption during the morning rush hour.
“I want to condemn those involved in this security alert which is causing disruption and has forced a local school to close,” she said.
“I would urge people to avoid the area while the security alter continues.”