The final version of a Marine Casualty Investigation Broad report into the death of Coast Guard Volunteer Caitríona Lucas two years ago is due out today.
It’s over two years since the Liscannor librarian lost her life in an incident off Kilkee.
The MCIB report, which is to be published today, criticises the Irish Coastguard, saying it does not have an effective safety management system.
The Irish Times also reports that it calls on the Transport Minister to review the Irish national search and rescue framework, to ensure criteria for responding to recovery missions at sea, as well as a comprehensive safety management system.
Responding to an earlier draft, the Coast Guard called for a “substantial reappraisal”, saying it was “flawed and misleading”.
Their response is also expected to be published by the MCIB today, but its report contains the initial key findings, along with that of Caitrona’s widower Bernard.
He reportedly questions the report’s failure to refer to problems with helmets and lifejackets and other equipment, and refers to “low morale” in the Kilkee Unit, saying it had lost members in the months prior to the incident.
Caitriona was a member of the Doolin Coast Guard, and was volunteering with members in Kilkee on the day she died.
