Fully paid interim staff, brought over from the UK are currently manning the base after the 25-strong volunteer crew walked out in protest over the dismissal of their coxswain, Andy Hibbs, earlier this month.
Mr Hibbs lodged an appeal against the decision on 19 April, which is currently being considered by the RNLI. In a statement released yesterday, the crew said that the appeal would not be concluded by this weekend and therefore they would be unable to return to their positions.
It says: ‘As a result of actions that have been taken, the crew will not be able to man the station and boats during the show as we have in the past.
‘In the meantime, we would like to reiterate our respect for the UK crew members currently providing cover and we look forward to re-establishing our previously good working relationships with local search and rescue agencies, including RNLI management, as soon as possible.’
It added: ‘Finally, we would like to once again express our huge gratitude for the support that we continue to receive from all levels of the Island community – we feel truly humbled.’
RNLI lifeguards will be manning a stand at the event and the RNLI lifeboat shop will open as normal.
