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Border links could save Coast Guard 12.11.12

AN SDLP MLA has sought the support of the Northern Ireland Office in a bid to ensure the Malin Head Coast Guard station remains open.
John Dallat MLA contacted Minister of State, Mike Penning MP, informing him of the threat hanging over the country's most northerly Coast Guard.
“When Mike Penning was Minister for Transport in Westminster he was instrumental in keeping the Coast Guard station at Bangor, Co Down, open and he made his judgement on the basis that Bangor had a special working relationship with Malin Head which was critical to ensuring there was a complete coverage of all areas," said Mr Dallat.
The Irish Coast Guard station at Malin Head.
“It would be ironic now if Malin Head, which saved Bangor, was itself to be victim of closure. That must not happen and I believe Mr Penning’s support is an important element in this campaign which must not fail." Mr Dallat raised the issue with Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore and Department of Foreign Affairs officials during their weekend visit to the North.He is also researching historical documents which he believes set out "very clear undertakings" for Malin Head Coast Guard station after it was handed over to the State in 1950.
"I am sure these relate to future relationships with the Coast Guards in the North, the very issue which I have been campaigning about," he said.
“When the government finally makes a decision I do hope that Malin Head will continue as a fully-functional Coast Guard station with increased responsibilities and a guaranteed future for another 100 years serving the people in the way it has.”
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