Temporary replacement lifeboat for Douglas by late summer

Talks over future of lifeboat service in city remain ongoing

The arrival in Douglas of a Trent class all-weather lifeboat to replace the current Mersey class vessel which is being withdrawn from service, will now take place around the end of July or early August.

It had been hoped to have the temporary replacement operational by the Spring, but the RNLI has now confirmed the extended deadline.

In October last year the RNLI launched what it called a Lifesaving Effect Review to determine the most appropriate lifeboat to serve Douglas in future.

In advance of the temporary introduction of the Trent class vessel the charity required the issue of a formal licence by the Department of Infrastructure for use of the liner berth in Douglas harbour.

Meanwhile talks for the long-term future of the lifeboat service in the Island's capital are continuing between government and the RNLI.

A spokesperson for the charity told Manx Radio the two sides were involved in ongoing, regular dialogue and the Trent vessel will provide an interim solution.

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