Mayo lake rescue team seeking permanent base

THE lack of a permanent home for a south Mayo search and rescue team has been highlighted.

Concern about the facilities available to Corrib Mask Search and Rescue were raised in submissions for a pier upgrade at Lisloughrey.

Plans for the upgrade have been approved by Mayo County Council.

Galway City Council were applicants in the case involving the pier, in Cong, where plans include improvements to the existing concrete slipway and adjacent pier wall, the installation of a floating pontoon and an adjoining walkway.

In a submission, volunteer-led Corrib Mask Search and Rescue said since losing its base at Ashford Castle, they have operated on a make do basis from a metal container on the estate. Despite the theft of a new engine and damage to their rescue boat, they have continued to provide rescue cover.

The organisation is currently operating from a temporary arrangement at Lisloughrey pier, adjacent to the development site.

The applicants, they submitted to planners, is on record stating that their current situation is not to their liking and has in the past supported their efforts to secure a permanent waterside launch base.

They requested a condition of planning include the provision of a suitable serviced building to accommodate their operations and rescue craft.

They have the support of Deputy Alan Dillon who said while the current setup is difficulty for all pier users, he was making representations to support the search and rescue team's efforts to secure a permanent waterside launch base, to assist them in saving lives in the Corrib catchment area.