EirGrid says it is celebrating partnerships supporting three lifeboat stations along the south coast, at Youghal in Cork and at Helvick and Dunmore East in Waterford.
The national grid operator says it is sponsoring a range of RNLI activities at the three stations, including equipment support and community focused events.
As Afloat reported in July, Eirgrid began marine surveys off the South Coast relating to offshore wind development. In November 2024, the company invited public input on new offshore wind power transmission infrastructure plans on the south coast, as Afloat reports here.
The sponsorships will also help the charity continue to deliver essential services, including lifeboat launches, training exercises and public events hosted by the stations.
Last year, lifeboat crews from the three stations launched 53 times, bringing 45 people to safety on the Waterford and Cork coastline.
Speaking at the RNLI’s Business for Lifeboats recent event, Killian O’Kelly, RNLI Fundraising Partnership Lead, Ireland Region, said that “we are thrilled to celebrate our partnership with EirGrid, whose generous support will play a vital role in funding events across the three stations”.
“ This collaboration not only strengthens community engagement but also helps us enhance our lifesaving efforts in these coastal areas. Together with EirGrid, we look forward to making a meaningful impact and ensuring the RNLI has a sustainable future,”he said.
Welcoming the partnership Ronan Lynch, Fisheries Liaison Officer with EirGrid, and fifth generation RNLI volunteer said that “EirGrid is committed to bringing a supportive and responsible presence in communities”.
“ Partnering with the RNLI in stations across the south coast allows us to play our part in creating a safe coastline, while also connecting people and places that play a key role in Ireland’s energy future,”he said.
“As organisations rooted in local regions across Ireland, we have a shared commitment to ensuring communities are resilient, connected and supported. As a RNLI volunteer for three years in Ballycotton lifeboat station, I am proud to support their vital work and look forward to EirGrid’s continued work with the RNLI in Youghal, Helvick and Dunmore East for the years to come,”he said.
