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Aran Islands RNLI volunteers called away from wedding to respond to pager

Lifeboats News Release

The volunteer crew were requested to launch Friday night (16 May) at 8.59pm by the Irish Coast Guard following reports of an overdue kayaker.

RNLI Coxswain Aonghus O hIarnain standing in front of the lifeboat station in his tux

RNLI/Treasa NiBhraonain

RNLI Coxswain Aonghus O hIarnain

Despite being guests at a wedding, several crew members—including coxswains Noel Seoighe and Aonghus Ó hIarnáin—immediately reported to the lifeboat station to prepare for launch.

Fortunately, the crew stood down once contact was re-established with the kayaker. It’s a reminder when kayaking to always tell someone else where you’re going and when you’ll be back. They can raise the alarm with the Coast Guard by calling 999 or 112 if you are overdue.

This call out, once again, highlights the dedication of our volunteers who are ready to respond at a moment’s notice – regardless of time, place or occasion.

ENDS

RNLI media contacts
For more information, please contact Treasa Ní Bhraonáin, Communications Placement on 085 1500 564 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Media Manager Tel: 00 353 87 1254 124 email: [email protected] Or Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Media Officer Tel: 00 353 87 648 3547 email: [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.