Drivers block rescue service

LIVES are being put at risk and the critical work of one of the country’s busiest volunteer rescue services is being hampered by irresponsible motorists who block access to a pier in Co Clare.

For the first time in 22 years, the Doolin unit of Irish Coast Guard (ICG) was unable to launch its rescue boat for over 20 minutes after dozens of vehicles blocked its path to the pier.

Over a third of the old carpark at Doolin has been handed back to the landowner and a stone wall costing over €50,000 now divides the area. This has resulted in a loss of dozens of parking spaces which is being blamed as the root of the problem.