The Mayor of Athlone has called on the Irish Red Cross to take urgent steps to reactivate the organisation in the town after a dispute led to the society's local branch having its bank account frozen.
RTÉ News understands a disagreement over the control of an ambulance and other equipment by local volunteers led to a decision by the Red Cross to restrict financial access.
Mayor of Athlone Cllr John Dolan said today the work of local volunteers was absolutely crucial, especially at times of winter flooding, and he wants the local branch to be restarted immediately.
In a statement, the Irish Red Cross said: "The Athlone branch account in question, containing a small amount of money, has been temporarily frozen due to concerns that rules of the organisation with regard to the management of charity property have not been followed.
"It is our hope that this matter will be resolved quickly, internally. There has been no discussion in relation to the disbandment of the Athlone branch."
"It is important to note that all monies held in this Athlone account will be used as specified and any commitments made to assist those impacted by flooding in Athlone will be honoured."
