The Republic of Ireland launched its ' Year of the Lifeboat' celebrations on October 16, 1973, with a reception at which Ireland's target for the year was announced: £100,000 above normal revenue to offset cost of new 44' steel lifeboat for Dunmore East. Reception was held on board B. & I- Shipping Co.'s Dublin-Liverpool ferry Leinster, seen here with Dun Laoghaire lifeboat, John F. Kennedy, and her crew. by courtesy of Tony Kelly.