Tipperary Search and Rescue are seeking support to purchase a new van to transport their equipment and search co-ordination unit.
The voluntary service receives scant support from the state with the waiving of Motor tax the only benefit the service has been able to avail of to date. The service has assisted at 16 call outs so far in 2024 – already matching the total number of call outs in 2023.
The unit is now setting a target of raising €7,000 on the iDonate platform and hopes to purchase a smaller vehicle than originally intended but to customise the interior to secure their equipment – ranging from boats to drones. The team will modify operating procedures and co-ordinate search operations from their jeep and use an attachable tent to expand the size of the van when stationary.
The service is appreciative of the many donations received to date from the public and hopes to reach the €7,000 target by October 1st. Tipperary Search and Rescue is also contacting van manufacturers and distributors in the hope of a sponsored vehicle being made available. The voluntary group says they will also take on board any information about government grant schemes or other funding streams that might fund such a vehicle.To date almost €700 of the €7000 target has been reached – donations can be made at this link here
