Justice Minister visits Lagan Search and Rescue
Date published:
Justice Minister David Ford has praised the public for its support in funding repairs to Lagan Search and Rescue Lifeboat which was damaged by vandals.
The Minister was speaking during a visit to the Belfast headquarters of Lagan Search and Rescue where the lifeboat was put out of operation after a recent attack by vandals.
David Ford said: “This was a destructive act which endangered lives. But I have been very heartened by the overwhelming public response to Lagan Search and Rescue’s innovative idea to fund the repairs.
“Donations received from the public surpassed the amount required and I am delighted to learn that the lifeboat will be back in operation after repairs are completed in the coming weeks.”
The Minister added: “I have been visiting many of the voluntary teams engaged in search and rescue work in Northern Ireland recently, and I have been impressed by the professionalism and dedication which they have all shown in support of the emergency services.”
In the course of his visit David Ford also met Tim Brown, a volunteer with Lagan Search and Rescue, who has just returned from a deployment in the Aegean Sea, working alongside volunteer rescue swimmers from the Emergency Response Rescue Corps of Malta, who have been assisting in the migrant crisis.
Notes to editors:
1. The Department of Justice assumed policy responsibility for land and inland water search and rescue (SAR) in Northern Ireland in 2011. A Northern Ireland Search and Rescue Policy group and Practitioners subgroup were set up.
2. Lagan Search and Rescue recently became a member of the Northern Ireland Search and Rescue Practitioners Group, which is co-ordinated by the Department of Justice. Further information can be found on the work of Lagan Search and Rescue website.
3. All media enquiries should be directed to the Department of Justice Press Office on 028 9052 6444. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 0769 971 5440 and your call will be returned.