LIMERICK Marine Search and Rescue (LMSR) was established in 1986 when two divers were asked to help search for a young boy who had lost his life in the waters at Parteen.
To celebrate its thirtieth year in service, chairman of LMSR, Joe Morgan, has organised a black tie ball fundraiser at the Limerick Strand Hotel on Friday October 21.
Jimmy Connors and Tony Cusack, who were both divers at the time, established LMSR in 1986. After helping in the search for the young boy, they decided there was a need for a search and rescue unit in Limerick.
The organisation has grown to having a headquarters at Atlas Avenue on the Dock Road, housing state-of-the-art equipment and pontoons on the river complete with rescue boats.
“30 years on and we’re stronger than ever. We are so grateful to JP McManus and to the other people who have given us big donations to keep us afloat, but also to the people of Limerick for keeping our dream alive. To see it grow from here, for it to go further, would be incredible,” Jimmy Connors told the Limerick Post.
All the 26 volunteers with the service give their service voluntarily. They also dedicate time to hold summer camps to help teach adults and children about water safety in a positive environment.
“Limerick Marine Search and Rescue is more than just the members. It wouldn’t exist without the people who’ve had pub quizzes, fundraisers and run marathons for us,” Joe Morgan explains.
“It’s a very community and volunteer based service. This fundraising ball is so vitally important to the future of our service and we are asking the people of Limerick to come out and support their own. Let’s keep our city safe for one another and best of all let’s do it in style!”
The tickets for the Black Tie Ball are €100 and are available at the Limerick Strand Hotel or from any of the LMSR volunteers. For further information visit Limerick Marine Search and Rescue on Facebook.
by Alan Jacques
