UK cut-backs could affect Island

Wed, 19 Jan 2011

Cut-backs on Coastguard stations within the UK could have a knock-on effect for the Island.

The UK's Maritime and Coastguard Agency plans to make Aberdeen and the Portsmouth and Southamptom area the only ones with 24 hour manned coastguard stations.

It's also expected that Clyde and Holyhead stations will close, along with either Liverpool or Belfast.

The remaining station will only operate in daylight hours.

Liverpool Coastguard currently co-ordinates marine emergencies in Manx waters.

The changes could lead to additional costs for the Island if it had to take control of emergencies in Manx waters.