Thanks to Eiméar Níc Bhloscaídh
Picture shows Frank McDermott (Rockcorry Divers), Eimear Nic Bhloscaidh (Keady) and Dainius Silvinskas (Rockcorry Divers)
ARTICLE FROM THE NORTHERN STANDARD
In a remarkable act of generosity and community spirit, Eimear Nic Bhloscaidh from Keady has devoted her personal time to raising £500 in support of Rockcorry Divers & North Coast Search and Recovery. This vital local organisation is comprised entirely of volunteers and plays a crucial role in search and recovery efforts across Ireland, offering solace and closure to families during their most difficult times. Rockcorry Divers & North Coast Search and Recovery, has been involved in dozens of high-profile missions, including the recovery of missing individual, James Patterson who was missing for almost 30 years.
Fundraising efforts shine a light on the importance of supporting the unit, which relies heavily on donations and volunteer contributions to continue its critical work. Since 1985, Rockcorry’s members have played an essential role in search and recovery operations across the counties of Monaghan, Cavan, Louth, Down, Armagh, Fermanagh, Donegal and beyond. Their missions range from water safety at public events to intensive search and recovery operations for missing persons. While their work often goes unseen, their impact is immeasurable, bringing much-needed closure to grieving families and communities.
Traditional rescue services, and recovery operations often take place under extreme and challenging conditions. Rockcorry’s divers navigate murky waters, unpredictable currents, and difficult terrains in their quest to recover missing persons and or crucial evidence. The team operates with meticulous precision, utilizing advanced sonar technology, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and specialised diving equipment to enhance their effectiveness.
Recent operations have taken Rockcorry search across the country, from Donegal’s rugged coastlines to the depths of Galway’s rivers and bay. Their work in assisting with the recovering missing individuals just recently such as Maire Ni Fhatharta who went missing at Silverstrand in Galway and Roisin Cryan who drowned in the River Moy, Balina, underscores the unit’s commitment to serving communities in their darkest hours, nationwide.
Rockcorry Divers & North Coast Search and Recovery operates entirely on a volunteer basis, with members covering their own expenses for training, transportation, and gear. Unlike other emergency services, they do not receive steady governmental funding, making donations and community support vital for their survival. However, thanks to organizations like The National Lottery, LEADER, and CLAR, Rockcorry has received crucial financial assistance to maintain and upgrade their equipment. These funds have helped to enhance their search capabilities, ensuring they remain equipped to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice.
Local Monaghan representativeas Councillor Richard Truell and Minister Heather Humphreys have also played an instrumental role in supporting Rockcorry, advocating for resources and raising awareness of their essential work. Their involvement has helped highlight the need for continued investment in search and recovery operations across Ireland.
Eimear Nic Bhloscaidh’s decision to raise £500 for Rockcorry Divers is a testament to the power of community action. Her dedication not only provides financial support but also raises awareness about the invaluable service Rockcorry provides.
Speaking about her efforts, Eimear emphasized the importance of ensuring Rockcorry has the resources needed to continue their lifechanging work. The volunteers at Rockcorry give so much of their time and effort to help others. It’s only right that we do our part to support them.” she said. Her fundraising will go directly toward maintaining essential equipment such as boats, trailers, vehicles, diving equipment, sonar imaging tools, and fuel for rescue operations. Every penny raised ensures that Rockcorry’s volunteers can continue their work without financial burden, allowing them to focus on their mission: bringing missing loved ones home.
Over the years, Rockcorry has been involved in some of Ireland’s most significant search and recovery missions. James Patterson: The Tobermore man had been missing for nearly 30 years before Rockcorry Divers, alongside North Coast Search and Recovery, successfully located and recovered his remains in 2020. His longawaited return brought closure to his grieving family and friends.Randy McNally: A Canadian shipwreck diver, Randy was tragically lost off the Donegal coast, whilst diving a wreck in 2017, some 20 miles offshore in 250ft of water, divers from Rockcorry played a key role in locating and assisting with recovering of his body, allowing his loved ones to lay him to rest.
These cases highlight the emotional and technical challenges involved in search and recovery operations. Every mission is carried out with the utmost care, respect, and professionalism, ensuring that those lost are returned to their loved ones with dignity.
Despite their successes, organizations like Rockcorry face an uphill battle when it comes to securing resources. The cost of specialized equipment, fuel, insurance, and training continues to rise, placing immense pressure on volunteers who already sacrifice their personal time and financial resources to serve others.
The support from LEADER, CLÃR, and The National Lottery has been invaluable, but continued fundraising efforts such as Eimear’s initiative are essential to sustaining Rockcorry’s operations. As more people become aware of the crucial role search and recovery units play, there is hope that funding and support will increase, ensuring that no family must wait decades for closure. Eimear’s incredible efforts serve as a reminder that every contribution, no matter how small makes a difference. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply raising awareness, we can all play a part in supporting the life-saving work of Rockcorry Search and Recovery.
If you would like to support Rockcorry Divers, visit their website at www.rockcorrydiving.com to learn more about how you can contribute or become involved either in diver training or some other area.
Organisations like Rockcorry stand as beacons of hope, offering their expertise, compassion, and commitment to finding answers. Thanks to individuals like Eimear Nic Bhloscaidh, their mission can continue, ensuring that families across Ireland receive the closure they so desperately need. To donate to Rockcorry Divers & North Coast Search & Recovery please look at this link. https://rockcorrydiving.com/donations/ You can also donate using the stripe link on the Club’s Facebook page or on the website.