The number of people drowned world-wide every year is comparable to a Titanic sinking every day, according to Dr Klaus Wilkens, president of the International Life-Saving Federation.
Drowning is the second most common cause of death, and the pressure on rescue organisations is increasing due to the growth in leisure activities and tourism, Dr Wilkens said in Galway yesterday. However, Ireland has a "triple A" rating for the standard of its work on safety, he said.
Dr Wilkens was in Galway to receive life-governor status of Irish Water Safety, presented to him by Minister of State Mr Bobby Molloy.
