A third of RNLI staff on temporary leave but Lifeboats to remain fully operational

Some 30% of staff will be put on “furlough” or temporary leave, and planned construction of new lifeboats and replacement of equipment and buildings is being put on hold.

Full-time mechanics and coxswains employed at all weather stations and voluntary crew will still continue to be available for call-outs at its 238 stations around Ireland and Britain, the organisation said. File picture.

Lifeboat stations in Ireland will still remain fully operational, as the RNLI plans to put a third of its paid staff on temporary leave over the next few weeks.

The RNLI chief executive Mark Dowie has said he is taking a 50% pay cut, as the coronavirus outbreak tests “many charities and emergency services” across Britain and Ireland.