Minister Humphreys announces appointment of Chairperson of the Council of Water Safety Ireland
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has today (Wednesday 8th December) announced the appointment of Clare McGrath as the new Chairperson of the Council of Water Safety Ireland (WSI).
Ms McGrath has already served on the Council for the past five years as an ordinary member.
Announcing the appointment, Minister Humphreys said:
“I am delighted to appoint Clare McGrath as the new Chairperson of the Council to Water Safety Ireland. Clare brings a wealth of experience as a lifelong member of Water Safety Ireland and Swim Ireland.
“I also want to acknowledge the contribution of Martin O’Sullivan, the outgoing Chair, and to thank him for his strong contribution and dedication to Water Safety Ireland over several years.”
Water Safety Ireland is a statutory body, responsible for the promotion of public awareness in relation to water safety and the provision of education and training in water safety and lifeguarding skills. It actively works to reduce and prevent drowning and water related accidents through education and promotion of water safety. It relies on around 5,000 volunteers around the country to assist it in achieving its aims.
Speaking about the important role of Water Safety Ireland, Minister Humphreys added:
“WSI is an organisation with a rich history of volunteerism and is deeply committed to these volunteers who teach swimming, lifesaving and promote drowning prevention initiatives nationwide.
“Water Safety Ireland has been consistently to the fore in raising awareness of the dangers of drowning in water over many years as well as the education and training of thousands of people in water safety.”
Ms McGrath is appointed to the role of Chairperson for a five year period and will provide leadership to the Council in the continued delivery of the National Drowning Prevention Strategy 2018-2027, along with the strategic development of the organisation.