Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We all want to reduce the number of drownings. Sadly, I know it all too well, it will not just be a matter of one drowning. A family member may go out and it could unfortunately end up being two people in the same family who drown. That has happened on many occasions.

I am happy to work with Water Safety Ireland. As the Deputy knows, I will meet the chairperson shortly and I will raise the points he raised. There are two pieces here. The local authorities have responsibility for the lifeguards and Water Safety Ireland has the responsibility for training, creating awareness and encouraging people to participate. My own children went to Water Safety Ireland, which ran courses to train children in inland counties about lakes. I have to say they got wonderful training. It does provide a great service. We will continue to support that but I will raise the issues and I take on board the concerns the Deputy has raised with me.

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