The crew of Wicklow lifeboat held a dedication ceremony on Saturday for the new D-class inshore lifeboat to be stationed at the harbour. The new inshore lifeboat, which will operate in tandem with the existing all-weather craft, is to be stationed in a new £50,000 extension to the boathouse.
Primarily designed to operate in daylight hours, the lifeboat, named Inbhear Deas, is mainly used for quick response local calls. If necessary, the boat can be launched into surf up to seven feet in height, making it an extremely versatile vessel.
Since its establishment in Wicklow, the inshore lifeboat crew has already launched 15 times, and saved seven lives. The ceremony included a service of dedication and blessing conducted by Father Frank McDonnell, parish priest of Wicklow, Canon John Clarke, rector of Wicklow, and the Rev Dr Sahr Wambasu, Wicklow.