## **Lisburn UMT Annual Report** 

The Lisburn UMT remains dedicated to providing support to our CO and his team whilst making sure that comply with our legal obligations as Trustees. 

The past year has been a difficult one for the UMT with one member of our small group having to resign for personal reasons.   As the year progressed growing concerns about Unit finances in the face of rising costs and a stagnant income presented further challenges.   Great efforts have been made by all to fund raise, particularly in the latter part of the year, but the continued provision of a minibus for Unit and District use is a severe drain on our limited income.   Decisions in respect to whether or not the cost and maintenance of a minibus can be sustained will have to be made in 2024.   Notwithstanding these concerns, the UMT have been keen to continue their support of District events with the use of the Lisburn facilities and our equipment. 

SLt John McCullagh, our CO, has once again been the mainstay of Lisburn Sea Cadets and along with his staff has continued to provide a quality training package for the cadets who attend the unit, demonstrating a remarkable energy and commitment.   Whether attending local, district or national training events all cadets are well prepared and reflect the hard work and dedication of the adult volunteers who train and look after them.    Several of the cadets (and UMT members) took part in the NI80 event in Carrickfergus in November 2022 attended by the Princess Royal, and many also collected for the Unit in Hillsborough on the day of King Charles’ Coronation. 

A renewed focus on fund raising will be top of the agenda in 2024, as will adding to the number of UMT members.   A challenging past year for the UMT, but a successful one for Lisburn Sea Cadets as a whole.