Waterford Fine Gael Senator John Cummins will join his party colleagues Minister of State at the Department of Transport Hildegarde Naughton TD and Minister of State with special responsibility for OPW Patrick O’Donovan TD at the sod turning for the new multi million-euro Bonmahon Coastguard Station on Wednesday 21st September.
Senator Cummins said “I’m delighted that both my Fine Gael colleagues, Minister Naughton and Minister O’Donovan are coming to Waterford to officially turn the sod on this project. The need for this new coastguard station to commence is something I have brought up with both Ministers on many occasions over the past twelve months and it is great to see things are finally at a very advanced stage. Planning for this much needed project was received in 2020 and I understand that works will officially commence at the start of October, with a completion date of Q4 next year expected”.
He added “The existing portacabin at Bonmahon which serves as the base is approximately fifteen years old and doesn’t meet the needs of the Irish Coastguard. The fact that there are no showering facilities for the amazing volunteers which give of their time and put their own lives at risk to help others is wholly unacceptable to me and that is why the government is investing approximately €5 million in a new station which will comprise of a garage for 3 Cliff Rescue Vehicles, an Emergency Operations Room, toilets, IT Comms Room/ Radio Desk, Shower and Changing Rooms, plant room areas, storage rooms, and external services compounds”.
Senator Cummins concluded by saying “I would like to thank the fantastic Bonmahon Coast Guard team for the amazing work that they do in all weather conditions. I know they have a very accomplished team that have been involved in many rescue missions and this new build is due recognition for their tireless work. I know everyone involved in the Coast Guard will be delighted to see this project commence and I wish the construction team the very best over the next twelve months.”