Statement from Therese on Aldeburgh Lifeboat Station:
"I’m continuing to pursue answers on behalf of Aldeburgh lifeboat station staff and local residents as part of the RNLI’s ongoing review into the future of the station and its possible downgrade. There is a risk that the current Mersey-class lifeboat will be replaced by an inshore Atlantic-85, which would restrict the current capabilities of the station and its crew members. This is in stark contrast to the review carried out in 2017, where it was concluded that the station required a new all-weather lifeboat. The consensus locally has been to opt for a Shannon-class lifeboat and two significant donations were received to cover the cost of the boat as well as launching equipment.
Unfortunately, the Chief Executive, Mark Dowie previously refused to meet me to discuss the issue. I, therefore, visited the lifeboat station unannounced when I was told he would be there and was disappointed not to meet him in person. Undeterred, I subsequently wrote another letter, which a member of my team hand-delivered to the Chairman of the RNLI, Janet Legrand, at their recent AGM in London. Mr Dowie finally agreed to a phone call, on the basis that I didn’t disclose any details of our conversation. Obviously, that wasn’t ideal but I decided it was more important to have the conversation to enable me to get the points across.
I have also written a letter to the Charity Commission questioning the previously donated £2.4m funds, which I understand were restricted for Aldeburgh but are seemingly not now being used for their intended purpose. I’m awaiting their response.
I’m determined to continue my campaign – and do all I can to prevent our precious lifeboat station from being downgraded."
