ESB's ElectricAID Ireland supports Blessington Rescue Boat Service

ESB chief Executive, Padraig McManus presented a cheque for €10,000 to boost the establishment of a rescue service on the Blessington Lakes, on Tuesday, February 12th.

The money, presented at the Avon Ri Centre in Blessington will go towards the purchase of a rescue boat to respond to emergencies on the lakes.

This support is provided by ElectricAID Ireland, ESB's corporate social and justice fund. The rescue boat will be stationed on the lakeshore and will be run by trained volunteers on an on-call basis. The project will follow operating guidelines set out by the Irish Water Safety Association and the Irish Coast Guard. Growth in tourism in the area, coupled with the increase in the local population's use of the lake, has lead to a greater need for a rescue service to deal with any accidents that may occur.

40 volunteers began training in July 2007 in accordance with standards set by the Irish Coast Guard in the areas of First Aid, VHF radio training, powerboat training and personal water rescue qualifications. The rescue coordinating committee comprises eight volunteers with experience and expertise in the management, training and operation of water safety and leisure activities. ESB ElectricAID Ireland was set up in 2005 and since its foundation has dispersed in excess of €2.6 million in funding to 240 projects across the country.

"ESB is very pleased to support this vital local initiative," the Chief Executive stated. "Safety on the lakes is always a major issue and this service is long overdue. The reservoir provides a wonderful amenity and tourist attraction with many sport and leisure activities. The increasing use of the lakes makes a rescue service imperative. ESB wishes the project every success and highly commends the volunteer effort behind the initiative."

Adele McGuirk, Secretary of the Rescue Boat Committee said, "As a result of the funding from the ElectricAID Ireland in addition with local funding projects, a training programme is underway for local volunteers and a boat has been purchased. Further fund raising is essential for the service to begin and the Committee would like to thank ElectricAID Ireland for their support."

ElectricAid Monthly Draw Winner

This month's ElectricAid draw winner is Ellen M. Frost from ESB Customer Supply in Limerick. She receives a €500 shopping voucher that was kindly sponsored by ESB Power Generation.