Rescue team in south Wicklow given €80,500 to purchase new vehicle
The Wicklow PeopleThe volunteer organisation provides 24/7 land search and rescue to the lost, missing and injured in County Wicklow.
The funding is part of the government’s CLÁR programme, which provides support for small scale projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population.
The scheme was re-opened in 2016 to support the development of remote rural areas through small-scale capital projects involving collaboration between local authorities and communities, as well as for other community-based organisations.
Glen of Imaal Mountain Rescue Team First Responders Team leader Bendan Beirne has welcomed the announcement, adding it will strengthen the emergency work they do in saving lives and assisting people who get into difficulty.
“Work is underway to restore the ageing fleet we currently have in service,” he said. “We are constantly trying to find new ways to fundraise to keep operations going. The running costs for equipment and training is expensive. We are grateful for the funding from the government.
“We have a plan to replace three vehicles over the next five years. There are high costs involved in maintaining them, up to €150,000 per vehicle.
“We were working on this application since the start of the year, now that we have secured the funding, we hope the rollout can start in 2026.
"Discussions are currently taking place with manufacturers about how the new vehicle will be kitted out. The equipment will need to be updated to respond to the high number of calls we are receiving.
"That process will take about six months, so we hope to have the vehicle ready to respond by the middle of next year.”
Reacting to the news Tánaiste and local TD Simon Harris said the funding will help the team carry out their work more efficiently.
“I’ve worked with this outstanding rescue team for many years and have seen first-hand their dedication, bravery and commitment to keeping people safe in all conditions.
“I’m thrilled to see this vital investment to support their life-saving work and ensure our beautiful mountains remain safe and accessible for everyone.”
Community Development Minister Dara Calleary has announced €1.7 million to deliver 32 vehicles nationwide under the 2025 CLÁR programme. The Glen Of Imaal team have secured funding for one of the most expensive vehicles on the list.
In 2024 under the same scheme the Wicklow Order Of Malta Ambulance Corp- Bray Unit First Responders were allocated €56,000 for a diesel vehicle.
In 2023 Rathdrum Cancer Support Group received a Hyundai Tucson with adaptions worth €44,034 while the Irish Community Rapid Response benefitted from a new vehicle and fit out to the value of €50,000