Townlands, the documentary series which features the
work of independent film-makers from all corners of
Ireland, returns to RTÉ One for a new summer run this
week.
'Townlands' first episode 'Body Searchers' is on RTE1 on Wednesday 19 June, at 8.30pm.
This new 13-part new series starts with a moving look at
the harrowing work done by the 'Search and Recovery
Unit' of the Grainne Uaile Diving Club in Ballina, Co.
Mayo.
The Grainne Uaile was formed in 1981 primarily as a
recreational club for sports divers. Due to its
geographical location, surrounded by hundreds of miles
of treacherous coastline and inland waterways, members
of the club set up a 'search and recovery unit' to
fulfil a need in the community. This voluntary
organisation recovers bodies from seas, rivers, lakes
and caves throughout the north Mayo area.
'Body Searchers' examines the emotional and physical
implications of the dives, as members of the unit recall
their most challenging recovery dives and highlight the
perilous nature of their vocation.
This thoroughly provocative programme embraces the
bravery and humanity of these divers, and the
inexplicable gratitude of grieving families.
Body recovery can be a very traumatic task, and
therefore demands nerves of
steel. So why do they do it? They do it because they
can. They appreciate that they have the necessary
skills, plus a knowledge of local waters - a trait that
can speed up the recovery process. For these brave
divers it is a means of giving something back to the
community.
Body Searchers is made by G. Marsh Productions for RTÉ
