RNLI: 'We understand the frustrations of Douglas crew'

Commitment to provide station with new vessel and suitable station

The RNLI says it understands the frustrations of lifeboat crew working in Douglas and it remains ‘absolutely committed’ to providing the capital with a new vessel and suitable station.

A consultation and data review is being launched later this month (28 October) to assess which lifeboat would be best suited to the capital.

The current Mersey boat will be coming out of service next year; the existing station has also been condemned leaving volunteers working from a temporary base.

It’s led to concerns that the Douglas RNLI team isn’t being prioritised.

You can find out more HERE.

The RNLI says it has a ‘duty to use our donor’s money wisely’ and it is crucial that any investment is balanced against the potential lifesaving impact generated.

Jo Partner is Head of Region for Wales, West and the Isle of Man:

Peter Washington, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager at Douglas RNLI, said: “I would like to thank the whole team at Douglas for their unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea despite the challenges we have faced from an infrastructure perspective over many years.

“Whilst this was not the news we were hoping for we understand our Mersey will be coming out of service next year and it is essential we find a way forward to ensure the crew can continue to operate.

“We are heartened to hear of the RNLI's commitment to Douglas RNLI and are confident this review will now shape a way forward and help us to find a permanent home for the most appropriate asset for our station.”

You can hear more from Jo Partner in this episode of NEWSCAST: