Minister of State with special responsibility for the Irish Coast Guard, Seán Canney TD, along with Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin Boxer Moran, today officially opened the newly constructed, purpose-built Westport Coast Guard Station, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing development of Ireland’s national search and rescue infrastructure.
The new two-storey, 657 m² station, standing 10.94 metres high, provides state-of-the-art facilities including: Offices and a training room, A kitchenette and drying room, Equipment stores, Vehicle and boat storage, Changing rooms, Full universal access, including a wheelchair accessible toilet and elevator.
Speaking at today’s opening, Minister Canney said: “I am delighted to officially open the new Westport Coast Guard Station—an important investment supporting the resilience of this region.
This facility will significantly strengthen the operational capability of the Westport Unit, whose volunteers work tirelessly, often in difficult conditions, to protect lives along our coast and inland waterways.
Today’s opening reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that the Irish Coast Guard has the modern infrastructure it needs to carry out its critical work. I want to pay tribute to the members of the Westport Unit, as well as other local emergency organisations such as Mayo Mountain Rescue, Mayo RNLI and Civil Defence and the Search and Rescue Dogs Association for their dedication and service.
”The project cost €6.8 million and was delivered as part of the Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) Building Programme, the project was managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) on behalf of the Department of Transport. The site, secured through Mayo County Council, lies within the Clew Bay Complex Special Area of Conservation (SAC), with the project designed in full compliance with planning permission, building regulations, OPW design standards, and Departmental sustainability and accessibility requirements.
