Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 December 2025
115. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the funding available for river rescue services such as an organisation (details supplied); if he will consider formalising governance and funding arrangements with such groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70534/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Irish Coast Guard is a pillar within the Department of Transport under the leadership of a dedicated Assistant Secretary General. Under the National SAR Plan the Coast Guard has responsibility for maritime search and rescue, in addition to responsibility for maritime casualty and pollution response. All Coast Guard functions are fully funded through the Departmental Vote and reviewed as part of the annual budgetary process.
The Coast Guard delivers maritime search and rescue through its own Units, contracted helicopter and aviation services and dedicated arrangements with the RNLI and independent rescue boat operators placed strategically around the coast to provide sufficient service coverage. A maintenance grant payment is only offered to those independent rescue boat operators to cover specific costs involved in the delivery of their services and particularly in support of the implementation of new Rescue Boat Guidelines, a common safety and operational standard for operators with declared status to the Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard does not currently have a requirement for maritime search and rescue services as delivered by Meath River Rescue and the Department is not in a position to provide them with funding. However, we do wish them well with their endeavours.
