Lives at risk following vandalism of ringbouys, warns Water Safety Ireland
- Robert Stone
- Jun 20
- 2 min read
Friday 20 June 2025
Water Safety Ireland has condemned the deliberate removal of lifebuoys near open water locations in Galway, saying the absence of the flotation aids could have fatal consequences.
The agency says there is an ongoing problem with the movement, theft or disposal of ringbuoys along the River Corrib, and at the seafront, adjacent to Galway Bay.
It is thought that in some instances, rope attached to the devices is being stolen to be used for clothes lines.
In other cases, buoys are simply thrown into the water and left to float away.
In recent weeks, several lifebuoys have been removed from designated housing at a number of locations in Galway City and county.
Many were recovered when they reached the mouth of the River Corrib.
The Deputy CEO of Water Safety Ireland, Roger Sweeney says such activity is irresponsible and puts lives at immediate risk.
“I am shocked and appalled that people tampered with these ringbuoys,” Sweeney said. “It is not a harmless prank — it is dangerous and irresponsible and puts lives at immediate risk. These devices are there to help save people from drowning. If they are missing when someone needs help, the consequences could be fatal.
“These ringbuoys are not ornaments, they are not toys — they are lifelines. Ringbuoys give people in distress a fighting chance at survival. When someone removes or destroys one, they are directly endangering lives. I cannot comprehend the mindset of someone who would take such a risk with another person’s life.”
Incidents of ringbuoy theft represent a worrying trend, Sweeney said. In Dublin alone, over 30 ringbuoys were reported missing in a single month, with an annual replacement cost exceeding €20,000. More critically, every missing ringbuoy represents a moment when someone in need may not get the help they desperately require.
“A stolen ringbuoy could mean a stolen life,” Sweeney added. “In an emergency, every second counts. When someone reaches for a ringbuoy and it isn’t there because of a senseless act, the consequences could be tragic. It’s the kind of impulsive, thrill-seeking behaviour that lacks consideration for the consequences.”
Water Safety Ireland urges members of the public to report missing or vandalised ringbuoys to their local authority or online at www.ringbuoys.ie.
