Union Hall RNLI now has its first father-and-son helms in Chris and Darren Collins.
Darren has been a volunteer crew member at the West Cork lifeboat station and on Thursday night (12 September) passed out as a helm.
The role of helm is responsible for the inshore lifeboat during launching, at sea and through recovery, as well as the safety of the crew on board.
In preparation for his appointment, Darren has undertaken intensive training and assessments both at the station and at the Lifeboat College in Poole, England.
Following the success of passing his final assessment, Darren can now be responsible for taking command of the lifeboat and ensuring volunteers remain safe while afloat.
“Thanks to the RNLI for the invaluable training and support in my role as helm,” Darren said. “I’m grateful for the skills and confidence you’ve helped me build to save lives at sea.”
During his training and assessment, Darren has been supported by the rest of the volunteer crew and now fellow helms based in Union Hall. As well as having his dad Chris as a fellow helm, he is also joined by his sister Niamh who is shore crew.
John Kelleher, lifeboat operations manager at Union Hall RNLI addressed the new helm on Thursday, saying: “All of us at Union Hall RNLI are delighted to congratulate helm Darren on this remarkable achievement. Your dedication, skill and commitment to saving lives at sea is inspiring.
“The community deeply appreciates your unwavering service and bravery. Thank you for your tireless efforts and for being a beacon of hope on our waters.”
