THE Kerry Mountain Rescue Team is to bring a campaign for a reduction in the rate of VAT paid on vital lifesaving and first aid equipment all the way to the European Parliament.
Team members have told how high tax charges are proving hugely prohibitive in the purchase of essential gear and they have asked MEPs and Euro election candidates for their full support in a bid to have the law changed.
Whereas mountain rescue units have to pay VAT on equipment, marine lifesaving teams are tax exempt and that has now led to calls for a more level playing pitch.
Kerry Mountain Rescue Team training officer, Gerry Christie, said he fears it could be a waste of time lobbying government politicians as the issue is currently live at a European level where a debate is taking place.
“We perceive that it is Europe that will progress our cause but it will be a long journey,” he remarked.
All Kerry Mountain Rescue Team members donate their services on a completely voluntary basis with all training and recovery missions occurring in their own time.
While the team receives a small level of funding from the State, the vast majority of the unit’s running costs – which includes the purchase of equipment – is generated through fundraising activities undertaken by members and supporters.
The Kerry rescue organisation was founded in 1966 and the average number of emergency call-outs undertaken each year exceeds 20.
