The “vital and rapid assistance” provided by the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team has been highlighted by Health Minister Mike Nesbitt. During a visit to Newcastle last week, Mr Nesbitt took the opportunity to meet with team members at their current base in the town, as well as visiting the site where their new station will be developed, close to Donard Park.
The team, which was established in the early 1960s and is run entirely by skilled volunteers, is set to relocate to this purpose-built facility next year. The land on which it will be constructed was donated by the retailer Lidl.
Mr Nesbitt said he welcomed the opportunity to spend time with the volunteers, and to “hear about the important work they do.” He also highlighted the “skill and dedication” shown by the team.
“I was very pleased to have the opportunity to spend time with the volunteers of the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team, to hear about the important work they do and to visit the site of their new base,” he said during Thursday’s visit. “The Mournes are very beautiful and provide wonderful opportunities for people to enjoy the great outdoors while improving their health and wellbeing. But it can be a harsh and hazardous environment and when people need help the team is often on hand with vital and rapid assistance.”
Minister Nesbitt added: “Getting care to patients as quickly as possible is paramount to achieving positive outcomes, so the skill and dedication of the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team (MMRT) and their ability to work effectively with other agencies, including the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS), the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS), and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), is very much appreciated.”
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