Cape Clear helipad set for upgrade after safety concerns

“It had gotten to the point where emergency workers were fearful over the helicopter’s ability to safely land at night."

“The islanders rely on the excellent service provided by the Coast Guard and so the maintenance and upkeep of the helicopter pad is an immediate necessity.” File photo

The helipad on the southernmost inhabited part of Ireland is set for a much-needed safety upgrade.

A grant of just over €14,000 will help fund the installation of a new lighting system on the pad on Cape Clear, off Cork, where some night-time medical evacuations have been winched aboard the aircraft amid concerns about the safety of night-time landings.