- Minister Varadkar arrives to open Killybegs Coast Guard station.
Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar has officially opened the new state-of-the-art Killybegs Coast Guard Station today.
The purpose-built facility ensures that the Killybegs volunteer Coast Guard team can effectively and efficiently serve the communities in North Donegal Bay and South West Donegal.
The Minister said the commitment shown by the local community was truly impressive.
“I’m delighted to open this superb, purpose-built Irish Coast Guard Station and pollution control centre. I want to thank the Coast Guard volunteers for their service and dedication to our coastal communities.
“This commitment is truly impressive and the Government is acutely aware of its importance. I’m pleased to announce that since my appointment as Minister, this is the third new station that we have opened for the Coast Guard volunteer sector.”
The new Coast Guard station is located at the inner mouth of Killybegs Harbour on the new pier. The combined facility consists of a three story Coast Guard Station and an adjoining single storey Pollution Control Store building.
It provides a base for the 25 volunteer members of the Killybegs Coast Guard team who are trained and equipped to operate as a boat team, cliff rescue and coastal search unit. And the pollution control store in the premises is one of three regional centres used by the Coast Guard for pollution response operations.
Irish Coast Guard Director Chris Reynolds said: “I am delighted to have this opportunity to welcome our many friends to Killybegs today on what is a proud day for Killybegs and its harbour.
“I extend a special welcome to representatives of the statutory and voluntary services including the Gardaí, RNLI, HSE, Navy, Fire Service and local authorities. I wish to thank Killybegs Coast Guard Unit for their many years of service to their community.”
Killybegs Coast Guard Unit Officer in Charge Arthur Kee said: “This is a special day for the volunteer members of Killybegs Coast Guard Unit, for the town and surrounding community.
“On behalf of the unit I would like to thank the Minister and all those involved with the project including the OPW, Donegal County Council, the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, whose assistance with site provision is greatly appreciated, and the local Harbour Master Martin Connell.”
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