Drogheda River Rescue and Recovery Service (DRRS) has received funding to the tune of €17,000 from the ESB’s Energy for Generations Fund towards the purchase of a replacement boat to continue its vital patrol and rescue operations in the North East.

Since 1972, DRR has operated on the River Boyne, as well as along beaches in Louth and Meath including Bettystown, Laytown, Baltray and Termofeckin. Their team of 15 volunteers undertake a variety of life-saving work including patrols as part of its suicide intervention service, assistance in nationwide searches and provide river safety talks to local schools and youth groups. This work is currently carried out using just two boats, one of which has been in operation for over 20 years.

Through ESB’s Energy for Generations Fund, the voluntary organisation has received funding of €17,000 towards the purchase of a replacement boat, a Zodiac Mk3, to assist with their life-saving work.

With an additional €9,000 required for essential equipment and accessories, the organisation is now seeking donations which can be made via its new website (www.droghedariverrescue.com).

Alan Floyd, Chairperson of Drogheda River Rescue and Recovery Service, said: “Through the support of ESB’s Energy for Generations Fund, we are now closer to reaching our target. The new boat will help us to save lives, rescue loved ones if ever required and help to keep people safe at events we cover, both locally and nationally.

“This support reflects ESB’s continued commitment to suicide prevention and recognises the work we do in the locality, having previously provided us with funding for dry suits and vehicle upgrades. We thank ESB for their ongoing support and continue to appeal for any donations, small or big, towards this important purchase.”

Having recently launched a new website (www.droghedariverrescue.com) to provide further information of its work and volunteering opportunities, Drogheda River Rescue and Recovery Service depends on the support of corporate and personal donations to survive throughout this difficult time.

ESB’s Energy for Generations Fund provides approximately €1m annually in direct assistance through a quarterly fund to charities working in the areas of suicide prevention, homelessness and education access and support. ESB recently brought forward its funding round to support organisations providing vital services during the current Covid-19 pandemic.

For more information on ESB’s Energy for Generation Fund visit – www.esb.ie/energyforgenerationsfund.