Fianna Fáil TD Charlie McConalogue has called on the Government to provide immediate assurances on the future of Malin Head Coast Guard Station after its closure was recommended in a report.
The Donegal North East Deputy made the call after a ‘value for money’ review of the Irish Coast Guard published today recommended the closure of Malin Head Station.
“This report raises fresh concerns for the future of what is an excellent and life-saving service in Donegal and across the North West region,” said Deputy McConalogue.
“Malin Head has provided an invaluable service for over a century now and its staff are highly trained and experienced. It has been an important part of life right across the North West coast, and its loss would be deeply felt by the fishing community, sports enthusiasts and visitors.
“The centre is currently undergoing an extensive upgrade with the installation of new equipment to ensure that it is well positioned to continue to provide this service to the highest possible standard into the future. The notion that all of this work could go to waste and service could be removed entirely is a disgrace,” said Deputy McConalogue.
The value for money review, known as the Fisher Report, recommends that the number of marine coast guard stations in the State be cut from three to two. It favours Valentia over Malin Head.
“If this goes ahead, once again Donegal and the North West would face a disproportionate level of cuts to local services. The Government must intervene immediately and provide assurances about the future of Malin Head station,” said Deputy McConalogue.
