The first step in the construction of a new Coast Guard Station at Bunmahon takes place this morning.
Minister of State with responsibility for the Irish Coast Guard, Hildegarde Naughton, and Minister of State for the OPW, Patrick O’Donovan, will break the ground for the construction of the new facility.
The station will be built at a cost of €5 million.
The project is due to start in October and is expected to take about 12 months to complete.
Members of the Irish Coast Guard will also be present, as will local political representatives.
"Today is a special day for our volunteers, the Irish Coast Guard and those enjoying Waterford’s beautiful coastline in the many years ahead," Minister Naughton said.
Planning was granted in 2020 to replace the existing portacabin, which is approximately 15 years old and doesn't meet the needs of the Irish Coastguard, especially as it has no facilities for showering.
The new station will provide modern facilities for the eighteen volunteers who operate from the Bunmahon Unit.
Brian Fleming, the Officer in Charge at the Bunmahon Coast Guard Station, told WLR that he is very happy with the update.
"Fantastic day for the community, great day for the county, we're delighted with the development going ahead," he said.
The new station will also comprise of a garage for three Cliff Rescue Vehicles, an Emergency Operations Room, toilets, IT Comms Room / Radio Desk, shower and changing facilities, plant room areas, storage rooms, external services compounds, a kitchen and office space.
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