£84,000 funding boost for voluntary search and rescue groups

The Department of Justice has awarded funding of over £84,000 to nine voluntary search and rescue groups in Northern Ireland. The support package includes a contribution of £41,000 from the Department for Communities.

Department of Justice Permanent Secretary Nick Perry said: “This latest funding award provides direct support to the hundreds of volunteers who tirelessly work to help keep our communities safe.

“Supporting the Maritime Coastguard Agency and the Police Service of Northern Ireland, volunteers provide 24 hour front line support to answer the calls of those in need. While funding supports the purchase of much needed lifesaving equipment, the volunteers take with them our admiration and thanks.”

Nine voluntary groups applied for funding and all will receive support.  Both Community Rescue Service and The North West Mountain Rescue Team are set to receive £16,000 each. Mourne Mountain Rescue Team will receive £14,000 and Irish Cave Rescue Organisation will benefit from a £10,000 award.

Lagan Search and Rescue, Lough Neagh Rescue, Foyle Search and Rescue, Search and Rescue Dog Association Ireland North and Skywatch Civil Air Patrol share awards totalling £28,400.

When considering applications for funding the department prioritised requests which would impact on front line services and would have the greatest benefit for the public.

Notes to editors: 

1.The DoJ co-ordinates the Northern Ireland Search and Rescue Practitioners’ Group which brings together the nine independent voluntary search and rescue groups, local RNLI and Coastguard teams, and members of their statutory partners.  This provides a forum for groups to come together to share experiences and best practice.  Further information can be found on the Northern Ireland Search and Rescue here .

2. Awards allocation:

Community Rescue Service: £16,000

Mourne Mountain Rescue Team: £14,000

North West Mountain Rescue Team: £16,000

Irish Cave Rescue Organisation: £10,000

Lagan Search and Rescue: £8,000

Lough Neagh Rescue: £2,400

Foyle Search and Rescue: £ 6,000

Search and Rescue Dog Association NI: £7,000

Skywatch Civil Air Patrol: £5,000

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 07623 974383 and your call will be returned.

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