asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that the coast-guard look-out stations in the Waterville, Ballinskelligs and Dingle areas, County Kerry, were manned during British rule in this country; and if in view of the fact that the lives of many fishermen have been lost by drowning when boats were swamped during severe gales he will take steps to have these look-outs remanned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Manning of Kerry Coast Look-Out Stations.
56.
The rescue functions of the former British Coastguard Service in this country are now discharged by the Coast Life Saving Service. During periods of bad weather a watch for vessels in distress is kept at selected points around the cost. The general organisation of the Service and the question of the points at which the maintenance of watches is required are kept under constant review. I am satisfied that the establishment and maintenance of a continuous coast watching service at the points mentioned by the Deputy is not required. The records in my Department show that there have been no lives lost in this area which could have been saved by the manning of these look-outs.