Louise Whelan
The annual Boat Blessing took place at the Poolbeg Yacht and Boat club on Sunday 15th May. Father Ivan Tonge accompanied by the new parish priest of St Matthews Church in Irishtown, Canon Leonard Ruddock, prayed for a safe and abundant season as they walked along the marina sprinkling every boat with holy water.
Eileen Murray, Deputy Commodore of the Club Committee, welcomed everyone to the special event and thanked the sponsors who have contributed to the club over the years, Dublin Port, Covanta Waste to Energy and the National Lottery. She also congratulated the committee, the staff and all those working behind the scenes for their great effort to be able to organize occasions like these.
The Lord Mayor of Ringsend and Irishtown Derek Buckley also thanked the crew of the Dun Laoghaire lifeboats for the unprecedented dedication and outstanding work they do year after year on the river. A minute of silence was also held in memory of the deceased brothers and sisters.
Everyone was then invited to board a few yachts for a ride up the river and back, enjoying the stunning views and taking in the sea air before returning to feast on a delicious lunch with drinks and entertainment.
Ethel Woods honored her husband Derek Woods by laying a wreath in the river as a sign of respect and remembrance, saying, “He went to heaven doing what he loved, being on his boat.”
Such a bittersweet moment but a wonderful tribute to him.
Poolbeg Yacht and Boat Club caters for all ages and abilities with a full service marina, clubhouse, bar, lessons and events.
To find out more, you can check out their social media or at www.poolbegmarina.ie
