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Search and Recovery Unit vows to continue working


MEMBERS of Killaloe Search and Recovery Unit have vowed to continue providing a service to the local community, despite the “shocking” theft of two 90-horsepower Honda twin engines worth about €15,000 apiece new.
Killaloe/Ballina Search and Recovery Unit chairman, Tony O’Brien, confirmed members were in a “defiant” mood to ensure its volunteer service continues when the theft was discussed at a recent meeting.
While members of the group were shocked and very disappointed that someone would stoop so low to steal valuable property from a voluntary organisation, Mr O’Brien said the divers are very resilient.
In fact, he pointed out measures have already been put in place such as securing the loan of a craft and engines from an existing member to ensure the vital emergency service continues.
“Members of KBSR are heartened by messages of support from people in the boating fraternity and from other people offering all kinds of assistance to ensure we keep going.
“Although we have got a loan of a craft and engines from one of our own members, we are anxious to get our own vessel back in action as soon as possible.
“If the people involved have any kind of conscience, I would appeal to them to contact us and return the engines somewhere where we can collect them.
“The most disappointing aspect is the fact these engines were paid for by the local community through local fundraising activities. I have no doubt the group was targeted because the boat is clearly identifiable as one of the Killaloe/Ballina Search and Recovery vessels.
“It is shocking and very disappointing that some people would go to the trouble of stealing property from a voluntary group for their own monetary gain,” he said.
It is believed that the two engines, which were chained and secured to a boat at Derg Marina, Ballina, Killaloe, were stolen sometime between Wednesday, March 2 and Wednesday, March 9 last.
Mr O’Brien appealed to any local resident or visitor who spotted anything suspicious at Derg Marina between these dates to contact Killaloe gardaí on 061 620540 or the garda confidential line on 1800 666111.

 

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