asked the Minister for the Environment if he will provide financial aid and insurance cover for members of the Irish Underwater Council who provide rescue and search services free of charge as a recognition of the important civic service they provide.
Written Answers. - Insurance Cover for Rescue Workers.
241.
My Department do not engage in the requisitioning of the services of members of the Irish Underwater Council nor have I received a request from the council for financial aid and insurance cover.
With regard to rescue services, I should draw attention to the local authority lifeguard service which operates at bathing places most frequented by the public and caters for swimmers who get into difficulties. The Irish Water Safety Association are actively involved with local authorities in the operation of this service through training courses in lifesaving and resuscitation and in the examination of applicants for lifeguard positions.
The Deputy may particularly have in mind assistance which has been given on a voluntary basis by members of the Irish Underwater Council in searches for the bodies of victims of drowning accidents. The position regarding arrangements for such searches has been the subject of discussions between the Irish Water Safety Association and the council. While I have no function in regard to the recovery of bodies, any proposals involving a widening of the role of the Irish Water Safety Association would have implications for me in view of the fact that the association is financed largely by local authorities and my Department. I am at present considering a report prepared by the association in relation to the matter and will be consulting with the Minister for Justice on the subject.