Busy year for Irish Coast Guard highlights their vital role in saving lives

Figures from the Irish Coast Guard reminds us of the vital work they do to save lives on our coasts and that we must exercise great care in the water, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward was speaking as figures from the Irish Coast Guard show its units responded to 1,270 callouts this year, with the Dún Laoghaire Coast Guard/RNLI in Senator Ward’s constituency responding to one in ten of these missions.

Senator Ward said, “Our Coast Guard members and volunteers deserve huge credit for the valuable work they do.

“I am particularly proud to see what an important part Dún Laoghaire Lifeboat Station has played in answering distress calls and saving lives.

“The best present we can give to them this new year is to be careful when in, around or on the water. Swimmers and dippers are reminded to inform themselves about the local hazards and to have warm, dry clothes available afterwards.

“Remember to always let someone know where you are going and when you will be back. The Coast Guard may be busy but they will always answer a call to 112 or 999 if you are concerned or need help.

“I thank all the local Dún Laoghaire people who have contributed to answering a tenth of Coast Guard callouts in 2020,” Senator Ward concluded.