National RNLI explains why two lifeboats were sent to Minquiers rescue

Thursday 08 June 2017

The RNLI's national press office has defended the decision to send two lifeboats to help a boat in trouble off the Minquiers at the weekend.

Critics claimed St Catherine's lifeboat was called out because the UK crew who are manning the St Helier lifeboat following the mass walkout of the local crew weren't familiar with the rocks in the area.

But the RNLI press office says "the decision to deploy two lifeboats to assist in the recovery of a stranded vessel was made deliberately and based on the circumstances prevailing at the time."

They go on to say: "both lifeboats were deployed at the same time to provide mutual support. The tide was falling so it would not be appropriate for the all-weather lifeboat to get into the shallow water around the reef but it would be the appropriate, larger more powerful lifeboat if a tow back to Jersey became necessary. The inshore, smaller lifeboat is designed and able to navigate between submerged rocks. All RNLI crews are trained to deal with all situations and are capable of adapting to prevailing circumstances and conditions. We have full confidence in the crew to look after Jersey;s coastline safely and effectively"

The St Helier lifeboat is currently being crewed by a team from the UK because the local crew 'walked out' after the national RNLI sacked their coxswain for allegedly breaching their code of conduct. The coxswain, Andy Hibbs, who has always denied the charges, has appealed and expects to find out next week what's happening. The crew say they won't go back without him.