Louise Whelan
The annual blessing of the boats took place in the Poolbeg Yacht and Boat club on Sunday 15th May. Fr Ivan Tonge accompanied by the new parish priest of St Matthews Church in Irishtown, Canon Leonard Ruddock, prayed for a safe and bountiful season as they walked along the marina sprinkling each boat with holy water.
Eileen Murray, Vice Commodore of the club committee, welcomed everybody 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 praised the committee, staff and everyone who works in the background for their great effort to be able to host occasions like these.
The Lord Mayor of Ringsend and Irishtown Derek Buckley also gave thanks to the crew of the Dun Laoghaire lifeboats for the unseen dedication and sterling work they perform year in, year out on the river. A minute silence also took place in memory of departed brothers and sisters.
Everybody was invited then to go on a few yachts for a jaunt down the river and back, taking in the amazing views and getting the sea air before returning to feast on a scrumptious lunch with drinks and entertainment.
Ethel Woods paid tribute to her husband Derek Woods by laying a wreath into the river as a mark of respect and remembrance, saying “He went to heaven doing what he loved, being on his boat.”
Such a bittersweet moment but a wonderful homage to him.
Poolbeg Yacht and Boat Club caters to all ages and abilities with a full service marina, club house, bar, courses and events.
To find out more information you can check out their social media or on www.poolbegmarina.ie
