WATCH: Poignant night at Meath River Rescue to bless new boat

Relatives of those recently lost to the rivers Blackwater and Boyne gathered and lit candles in a poignant ceremony to bless a brand new boat for Meath River Rescue.
The eight-seater hard plastic vessel was purchased from funds raised by the Gargan family who lost 21-year-old Mark to the River Boyne in 2015.
Mark’s dad, Johnny Gargan, was an ever-present at the Beechmount River Rescue HQ during the heartbreaking three-week search for his son, doing whatever he could to assist the volunteers.
He remains a frequent visitor and supporter of the MRR team and along with his family have been tireless fund-raisers.

A major night in the Ardboyne Hotel last November raised almost €9,000 which has gone towards the purchasing of a much-needed rescue craft which was dedicated to Mark’s memory.
The boat, equipped with a 25hp engine was blessed by Fr Jim Lynch from Kentstown while music was provided by Kentstown leaving certificate student Ciaran Lynch who sang Christy Moore’s ‘The Voyage’.
The evening was attended by members of the Gallagher and Stokes families who lost loved ones Derek Gallagher and John Stokes before Christmas.

“The blessing of the boat was lovely and great recognition of the work the Gargan family have done for Meath River Rescue,” said MRR Chairman Christopher Rennicks.
Johnny Gargan said the family were thrilled with the response to their fund-raising efforts and plan to hold another event later this year.
“We can never forget with the River Rescue people did for our families,” he said.