The RNLI and the Irish Coast Guard have joined forces to host two important safety demonstrations for Donegal fishermen which are aimed at making the industry safer for everyone.
The discussion and demonstration will be held in two venues in Donegal at Glengad and Bunbeg and will focus on the areas of stability, safety awareness and deck machinery.
RNLI Fishing Safety Manager Frankie Horne, who will lead the discussion said, ‘I have been a fisherman for 37 years from cook, to deck hand to skipper. I am also a volunteer lifeboat crewmember with the RNLI. I have seen many things in the industry and we want to help foster and promote a culture of safety in the industry. That starts with the fishermen themselves and with their concerns. We want the fishermen’s input into how to solve the problems in the industry that lead to loss of life or life-changing injuries. Fishing is still the most dangerous peace time occupation.’
The dates and venues for the demonstrations are:
Tuesday 26 January in the Glengad community centre at 7pm
Thursday 28 January in the Bunbeg Coast Guard station at 7pm
The RNLI have run a number of campaigns in the past aimed at fishermen. Last January the charity launched a hard-hitting campaign encouraging fishermen to make sure their boats kept them safe at sea. The campaign featured five short films which provided practical advice. The films can be viewed at rnli.org/stability