Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that a new bye-law is required to combat vandalism and theft of essential life-saving equipment such as defibrillators and ring-buoys.
McGuinness said:
“Over the past twelve months we have seen several local instances of vandalism and theft of emergency life-saving equipment. Over recent days there have been reports of thefts of defibrillators along the east coast.
“Waterford’s existing beach bye-laws make provision for an on-the-spot fine of €75 for interfering with a ring-buoy or other lifesaving equipment, however this only applies to designated beaches, and does not cover ring-buoys and lifesaving equipment in other locations.
“An on-the-spot fine of €75 is utterly inadequate given the seriousness of the offence and the possible consequences of damaging this equipment. The existing bye-laws are also inadequate as they do not cover all equipment, or all areas.
“I have begun drafting a bye-law that will provide adequate protection for essential lifesaving equipment no matter where it is located.”
Cllr. Conor D. McGuinness 