Minister tells of personal appreciation at opening of coast guard HQ

A new Irish Coast Guard station was officially opened by the Minister for Agriculture and Marine, Simon Coveny yesterday.
 
The purpose-built, facility in Crosshaven, Cork was developed by the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport and the OPW.

The building will provide a new base for the Crosshaven Volunteer Coast Guard Unit.


The new regional headquarters will also act as a training centre for the Irish Coast Guard. 
 
Members of the Crosshaven coast guard team were also presented with long term service medals by Minister Coveny, who said that he and his family had a 'deep personal connection' with the unit after his father slipped and drowned near cliffs at Robert's Cove in 1998.  

“It's fantastic to finally see recognition of their dedication and professionalism through the delivery of this new facility,” Minister Coveny said.

Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar, later commented on the presentation of medals saying he thought that they were 'richly deserved'. 

Mr Varadkar also expressed his thanks to the team of 20 local volunteer members for their dedication and hard work.

"The unit train every week and provide the region with a 24-hour, seven-day, emergency response  for coastal emergencies," he said.

Following the ceremony members of the public were given the opportunity to tour the station and also view a coastguard helicopter and meet the crew.

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