Inshore lifeboat service regroups as rival withdraws

Niamh Nolan and Neans McSweeney

The Bonmahon Inshore Lifeboat service closed after 19 years and 86 rescues when a rival group just two miles away said it was setting up. Yesterday, the Dunabratting Inshore Lifeboat Association said it was abandoning its plans for a service, simply because it had no other option.

Chairman of the Dunabratting Association Brian Fleming said they felt they had no option but to abandon their efforts. “Bonmahon inshore lifeboat services, which had ceased operations, said they would not regroup unless the Dunabratting group disbanded. We have been put in an impossible situation and feel we have no option but to withdraw our efforts.

“The original aim of the Dunabratting Inshore Association was to work in conjunction with and complement the existing services in Dunmore, Helvick, Bonmahon and Tramore.”

He said it was with deep regret that they reached this decision. “Our aim always was to save lives and provide an additional service to the local communities.

“Following legal advice all funds raised will remain in an interest saving account, no monies will be spent without consultation of the communities.”