Twenty-nine members of Limerick Civil Defence are currently visiting the Isle of Man.
They arrived last night (Thursday 16th July) and their itinerary includes a tour of the House of Keys and Tynwald Court in Douglas this morning followed by a hike up Snaefell mountain.
Saturday 18th July sees the visitors split into two teams to compete against two teams of Isle of Man Civil Defence volunteers on exercise in the Manx countryside.
They return home to the Republic of Ireland on Sunday.
Prior to escorting the party on a tour around Legislative Buildings in Douglas, Department of Home Affairs Member George Waft MLC commented ‘This visit brings an international dimension to emergency planning, enabling both sides to see techniques and information on planning processes from different areas.
'It’s also a good opportunity for Civil Defence volunteers to network with like-minded individuals.’
Limerick Civil Defence Officer Cecilia O’Flaherty was looking forward to the weekend despite this morning’s heavy rain. She commented ‘This is typical Limerick weather so we’re not worried.
'It may not be possible to see Ireland from Snaefell summit this afternoon but it won’t mar our enjoyment of the Isle of Man, or prevent us participating fully in the exercise.’
Photo caption: Limerick Civil Defence Officer Cecilia O’Flaherty with George Waft MLC and Emergency Planning Officer Martin Blackburn outside Legislative Buildings
