A new £330,000 headquarters and operational centre for Foyle Search and Rescue was unveiled this week by John Hunter, Permanent Secretary at the Department for Social Development.

Situated on the bank of the River Foyle at Prehen Road, Londonderry the centre was part funded by EU Peace and Reconciliation money, the Lotteries Fund, and other local organisations.

Speaking on Wednesday Mr Hunter commended Foyle Search and Rescue for their drive and determination in bringing forward the project and paid tribute to the volunteers who give their time to save lives and promote water safety.

He said: “I hope this new building with its symbolic design will prove to be the icon of hope which Foyle Search and Rescue intend it to be. I am delighted my Department, through the Londonderry Development Office and in partnership with other funding organisations, has been able to support such a worthwhile project. We all appreciate the dedication of the volunteers who provide this life-saving service.”

Foyle Search and Rescue boat team has been called out 558 times and the counselling team 460 times since the service was established in 1994. Volunteers gave more than 15,000 hours of service - equivalent to more than seven people working 40 hours per week – over the last year. The new rescue centre comprises a slipway and a nautically themed building with a viewing terrace, communications room, drying room, crew room and a conference room. (AMcE)