Douglas RNLI temporarily allocated a Trent class all-weather lifeboat
Douglas RNLI will receive a Trent class all-weather lifeboat to replace the end-of-life Mersey, which will be withdrawn from service later this year.
In October last year, the RNLI launched a Lifesaving Effect Review to determine the most appropriate lifeboat to serve Douglas RNLI into the future.
To ensure continuity of our lifesaving service and ease training transition, the RNLI will introduce a Trent class all-weather lifeboat whilst discussions with the Isle of Man Government continue about the long-term future.
The replacement of the Mersey with a Trent will be possible once the formal licence for the Liner Berth has been issued by the Department of Infrastructure. The RNLI is continuing to work with the Isle of Man Government to ensure continuation of operations from this berth. It is hoped the Trent class lifeboat will be operational in the Spring.
Jo Partner, RNLI Head of Region says:
‘The RNLI recognises the historic significance of Douglas alongside the current lifesaving impact the lifeboat station has in this region. Douglas will continue to provide a vital lifesaving service, and I want to reinforce our commitment to finding a solution that is absolutely right.
‘I would like to thank the Douglas RNLI crew for their invaluable input into the Lifesaving Effect Review. This interim solution provides a continuance of all-weather capability from Douglas, a reduced training demand on our volunteers and allows more time to find a longer-term solution that will ensure RNLI lifesaving from Douglas will be continued.
‘The RNLI will continue to work with the Isle of Man government to find a permanent solution to secure the long-term future of Douglas RNLI.’
Ends
For more information please contact Danielle Rush on 07786 668829 [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.
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