Louth search and rescue funding worth more than €140,000 has been announced for two local organisations to purchase new response vehicles.
Boyne Fishermen Rescue & Recovery Service is set to receive €79,363 towards a response jeep for first-response work along the River Boyne, while Dundalk Aqua Search and Rescue is to receive €60,800 for a response jeep supporting water search and rescue operations.
The allocations come under Measure 2 of the 2026 CLÁR programme, which supports transport for mobility and cancer care services, community first responders, search and rescue organisations and meals on wheels providers.
CLÁR is a targeted Government investment programme for designated rural areas that have experienced depopulation, socio-economic disadvantage or geographic remoteness.
New response vehicles
The Louth search and rescue funding comes under Measure 2 of the 2026 CLÁR programme, which supports transport for community first responders, search and rescue organisations, mobility services, cancer care and meals on wheels providers.
The funding announced for Louth is:
- €79,363 for Boyne Fishermens Rescue & Recovery Service for a response jeep for first response along the River Boyne
- €60,800 for Dundalk Aqua Search and Rescue for a response jeep for water search and rescue work
Deputy McGreehan said:
“These community services make a real difference in rural communities. This funding of over €140,000 will help empower these vitally important community and voluntary organisations delivering much needed search and rescue services.
“Boyne Fishermens Rescue & Recovery Service and Dundalk Aqua Search and Rescue are receiving much needed funds for their vital search and rescue services under this Government investment. It is a practical investment that will support these organisations in the important work they do every day.”
CLÁR transport funding
The Department’s 2026 scheme allows voluntary groups providing community first response and search and recovery services to apply for vehicle funding under Measure 2. Meals on wheels services were also included in the measure for 2026.
The wider CLÁR programme has a national allocation of €12 million for 2026 across three measures covering community facilities, transport services and offshore island communities.
Deputy McGreehan added:
“Communities across County Louth rely on the dedication of local volunteers and community groups. This investment will help ensure they have the resources they need to continue supporting people who might otherwise struggle to access vital services and supports.”
