MCGA consultation on Search and Rescue provision in the South West

[allen]

I thought those of you who dive in the south west of England might be interested in the consultation exercise the MCGA have just launched on the provision of search and rescue cover in the area. Whilst the consultation appears initially to be about the Hope Cove and Tamar rescue boats, it is also about downgrading SAR helicopter provision from Chivenor from 24 to 12 hour cover. For details of the consultation please refer to:

http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga07-home/shipsandcargoes/consultations/mcga-currentconsultations/consultations-oce-swp.htm

Allen

[Hamish]

Hi Allan,

I’m slightly perplexed as I can find no mention of any downgrading of the RNAS or RAF SAR capability. The service provided has not changed for some years as far as I am aware.

The service as it stands and is to continue, is detailed in the document which I have copied here:

At each RAF / RN location, one helicopter is available at 15 minutes readiness between 0800 and 2200 hours with another available at 60 minutes readiness between 0800 hours and evening civil twilight. Between 2200 and 0800 hours, one helicopter is held at 45 minutes readiness. All SAR helicopters are equipped for full day and night all weather operations over land and sea. Although some limitations exist with regard to freezing conditions, the helicopters are to all intents and purposes, all weather capable and have a full night vision goggle (NVG) capability.

Unless I have missed something.:confused:

Regards

Hamish