#RNLI - RNLI lifeboats in the Republic of Ireland launched 1,087 times in 2013 bringing 1,278 people to safety.

The figures released by the charity today (Tuesday 28 January) are based on returns of service from all 44 lifeboat stations in Ireland.

And those numbers doesn't count the 245 people brought to safety in 255 launches from Northern Ireland's nine lifeboat stations - plus many more rescued by the North's RNLI lifeguards.

The statistics show that the majority of last year’s call-outs in the Republic were to pleasure craft, which accounted for 583 services, while there were 138 launches to fishing vessels.

Northern Ireland, meanwhile, counted 109 call-outs that took place in the dark, while the North's crews spent 1,459 service hours at sea collectively.

Dun Laoghaire RNLI’s all-weather and inshore lifeboats had the most launches in 2013, with its crew rescuing 67 people during 58 call-outs.

Enniskillen RNLI, which operates from two inland stations in Fermanagh, brought the most people to safety, with 82 individuals rescued from 56 call-outs. More than half of those services were carried out in the dark.

Portrush RNLI in Co Antrim had 47 call-outs, bringing 33 people to safety, while the volunteer crew in Howth launched their two lifeboats 46 times last year rescuing 78 people.

It was also a busy year for Kilmore Quay in Co Wexford, which operates a Tamar class lifeboat – the most technologically advanced in the Irish fleet. The lifeboat crew there rescued 76 people during 43 call-outs.

Further south in Co Cork, inshore lifeboat stations at Crosshaven and Kinsale launched 42 and 41 times respectively, bringing 36 people to safety in Crosshaven and 54 in Kinsale.

The charity’s lifeboat crews also had 142 call outs to people classed as ashore. These services included assisting people who were ill or injured on an island, cliff or the shoreline, where access by lifeboat was the fastest or safest way to reach the casualty.

On 10 occasions, lifeboat crews were also called upon to rescue animals in 2013. These included four dogs, two sheep, a cow, two whales and a dolphin.

In a year when Ireland saw one of its hottest summers, the overall statistics show an increase of 132 lifeboat launches in 2013, up from 955 in 2012 to 1,087. There was also an upsurge in the number of rescues with 221 more people brought to safety over the 12 month period.

In the North there was a busy season for the 10 RNLI lifeguard units, located on beaches in Co Down and along the Causeway Coast.

In all, RNLI lifeguards responded to 302 incidents compared to 159 in 2012 and came to the aid of 330 people who found themselves in difficulty, which is an increase of 153 from the year before.

The Causeway Coast, where there are seven units, was the busiest area, with lifeguards responding to 222 incidents and assisting 247 people. Among these incidents was the dramatic rescue of a family of six in Castlerock after they got caught in a flash rip - a strong current running out to sea.

Throughout the year, there were some dramatic and challenging call outs for the lifeboat crews.

In July, 30 people were rescued by Kinsale and Courtmacsherry lifeboat crews when the tall ship Astrid was blown onto rocks and started to take on water off the south coast.

Dun Laoghaire RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat and Howth RNLI’s inshore lifeboat rescued six people on Dublin Bay in August after their boat capsized and they were left clinging to the upturned hull.

And in September, Portaferry RNLI rescued a fisherman from Portavogie, who was in the water for 45 minutes after his vessel sank off the coast of Co Down.

Reflecting on the year, RNLI operations manager for Ireland Martyn Smith said: "2013 proved to be another busy year for the RNLI with an increase in both our lifeboat launches and rescues.

"Our lifeboat crews are highly trained and equipped to deal with the challenges they face and we are indebted to their dedication to respond when the need arises.

He added: "Sadly not every call out results in a rescue and 2013 also brought its share of tragedy. A number of our call-outs involved searches for missing people and in some incidents, they involved bringing home loved ones who were lost at sea.

"These call-outs, while challenging for all involved, demonstrate the commitment and seamanship of our crews who devote many hours to a search and recovery effort."

Looking ahead, Smith reminded the public that irrespective of weather conditions, the water always presents a risk.

He recommended that people take care by following some simple safety tips: "We would remind water users to always wear a lifejacket, get the appropriate training, carry a means of calling for help, check engine and fuel, tell others where you are going and check weather and tides."

Smith also took time to thank everyone who contributed to helping the RNLI save lives at sea in 2013.

"I would like to say a huge thank-you to our volunteers and all those who support the RNLI, a charity dependent on the generosity of the public, whether by giving up their time or by making a donation.

"I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of our colleagues in the Irish Coast Guard and emergency services who we worked closely with in 2013."

#RNLI - Baltimore RNLI assisted three crew members on board a 20m fishing trawler which got into difficulty off West Cork on Monday night (20 January).

The volunteer lifeboat crew was requested to launch their all-weather lifeboat by the Irish Coast Guard at 11.10pm following a report that a 20m trawler had lost steering three quarters of a mile south west of Cape Clear.



The lifeboat, under coxswain Aidan Bushe, launched at 11.18pm and made its way to the scene. Weather conditions at the time were described as blowing force four to five south westerly winds and there was a three metre swell.



Having established a tow line, the lifeboat brought the vessel safely back to Baltimore.



Speaking following the call out, Baltimore RNLI lifeboat operations manager Tom Bushe said: "The vessel encountered difficulties late last night when it was dark and the weather conditions were fairly challenging.

"We were delighted to be able to assist and help the crew bring their vessel to safety." 

#RNLI - The crew of Bundoran RNLI were tasked yesterday afternoon (19 January) for their first call out of 2014, to an 18ft pleasure craft with two people on board which suffered engine failure off Mullaghmore Head in Co Sligo.

The alarm was raised with Malin Head Coast Guard shortly before 4pm by mobile phone and the lifeboat launched within three minutes, as many of the crew were already on station completing their Advanced Cardiac First Responder course. 

On arriving at the scene, the volunteer crew found that the occupiers of the pleasure craft were being assisted by local charter fishing boats. The Bundoran lifeboat crew then took the craft under tow to Mullaghmore harbour and returned then to the lifeboat station.
 


Speaking afterwards, Bundoran RNLI deputy launching authority Patrick O'Doherty said: "We were happy to assist the boat owners who had the misfortune of having their engine lose power while out on a Sunday afternoon.

"We would advise all boat owners to ensure that they have a means of contacting the coastguard in case of emergency when out on the water. We would especially recommend the use of a handheld VHF radio which also allows our equipment on the lifeboat to locate a signal quickly."

#RNLI - While most of the country was taking refuge from storm-force winds today (6 January), the volunteer lifeboat crew from Baltimore RNLI was called upon to assist in a medical evacuation from Sherkin Island in West Cork.

The call for assistance came at 12.23pm today when an elderly man suffered a badly broken leg.

The all-weather lifeboat, which is designed for severe weather conditions, safely made its way across Baltimore Harbour to the island, but considerable seamanship skills were required in the transfer of the stretchered casualty as a consequence of the large draw at Sherkin Pier.

Prior to transfer, the man had received medical attention and was strapped to a stretcher immobilising the injured leg.


Baltimore RNLI coxswain Kieran Cotter brought the injured man ashore at the new RNLI station at Bull Point in Baltimore. The man was transferred to an ambulance for further medical attention.


Volunteers onboard the lifeboat with Cotter were mechanic Cathal Cottrell and crew members Aidan Bushe, Jerry Smith, Micheal Cottrell, Pat Collins and Tadgh Collins. Shore crew included Tom Kelly, Ronnie Carthy, Diarmuid Colins and Colin Whooley.

#RNLI - Wicklow RNLI's lifeboat crew held their annual Service of Remembrance on New Year’s Day yesterday.

The ceremony remembers past deceased lifeboat volunteers and all associated with the sea from Wicklow, and began with a short religious prayer conducted by Father Donal Roche, who blessed the flowers and wreaths.



After the blessing, coxswain Nick Keogh and the lifeboat crew took the floral tributes out to sea and placed them on the water.

#RNLI - Kilmore Quay RNLI volunteers had a Christmas Day call-out last week when a surfer got into difficulties just before 4pm.

The man had been surfing at the Burrow Shore off the Memorial Garden to the west of the Co Wexford lifeboat station when he drifted towards the rocky end of the beach, where it would have been dangerous for him to come ashore.

Weather conditions were good at the time, with a light north-westerly breeze with an on-shore swell, good visibility and overcast sky - so the lifeboat crew had no problems responding swiftly, taking the lifeboat’s Y-boat to recover the surfer and his board. 

No medical assistance was required and the surfer and his board were landed safely back at the marina.  

The Kilmore Quay surfer was just one of hundreds who took to the wintry waters around the coast as Christmas Day saw an array of special events nationwide, from surfing in Strandhill to swimming in Sandycove.

As the Irish Independent reports, locals at Banna Beach in Co Kerry were treated to the incredible sight of 300 people running into the freezing Atlantic in a charity challenge for the local sea rescue unit.

And in Dublin, the traditional Forty Foot plunge brought out its regular contingent of hardy souls.

#Safety - Bundoran RNLI is among those urging water users to exercise common sense and safety over the current holiday period as persistent stormy weather makes sea conditions treacherous around the Irish coast.

With water hobby gifts like surfboards, bodyboards and kayaks a certainty under the tree on the 25th, the RNLI advises that all usual safety checks should be performed before heading out into the water.

If you are using equipment for the first time, make sure you know how to operate it correctly and most of all take a sensible approach when using this equipment in the water.

Check the weather forecast, check the conditions of the beach or water areas you are in and if you are unsure, seek the advice of a local surf school or coastguard who will be happy to advise you of any imminent or hidden dangers.

Bundoran RNLI lifeboat operations manager Tony McGowan adds: "We want people to enjoy the holidays and any new sporting gifts they receive for Christmas but of course we also want people to be safe and come back in one piece if they venture into the water.

"The lifeboat will as usual be on standby 24/7 over the holiday period and will be ready to launch if requested."

As the end of the year draws close, all of the crew of Bundoran RNLI wish to thank each and every supporter who has contributed to the charity this year for their generous donations. 

Volunteer lifeboat press officer Shane Smyth says: "It’s been a busy year for our fundraising teams with big events like the annual Dinner Dance, the Soapbox Race, the Station to Station Challenge and of course the Boat Push. 

"Thanks to all of our supporters and our fundraisers who work quietly in the background. Your help to keep us running is very much appreciated. We’d like to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a happy and safe 2014."

Tickets are now on sale for the annual dinner dance which takes place at the Great Northern Hotel on Friday 31 January 2014 with entertainment from Derek Ryan.

#RNLI - Holyhead RNLI volunteers are coming together to mark the 10th anniversary of their all-weather lifeboat that safeguards waters familiar to many an Irish ferry passenger.

To celebrate the milestone, the volunteer RNLI crew have commissioned a decorative bell paying tribute to each volunteer who has served aboard Christopher Pearce.

The bell will be unveiled to the volunteer crew who will also receive an anniversary glass this Wednesday 18 December.

Launching 205 times since entering service at Holyhead, Christopher Pearce - the only Severn class lifeboat of her kind in Wales - has rescued 307 people.

A total of those 11 people rescued owe their lives to the volunteer crew and would not be celebrating Christmas this year had Christopher Pearce not come to their rescue.

The vessel – which is named after Christopher Pearce, who bequeathed the money before his death in 1997 – has seen some unique, challenging and difficult rescues during its 10 years on station.

In 2006 the all-weather lifeboat saw some of its most unusual rescues. A swan-shaped pedalo drifting in a busy shipping lane 25 miles out to sea required their assistance during the summer. 

Then two young Irish men who stole a fishing trawler to sail home across the Irish Sea after missing the last ferry required their assistance after sailing in circles around the Anglesey coast.

In 2007, the all-weather lifeboat was launched to the large vessel Smitt Cymran which had hit rocks and was sinking seven miles out of Holyhead. The five people were lifted off by RAF sea king helicopter. The volunteer lifeboat crew worked hard to keep vessel afloat.

More recently, in 2011, Christopher Pearce was launched to assist other North Wales lifeboats in searching for missing men after the cargo ship Swanland sank. 

The volunteer crew had to contend with Force 9 winds into a very rough and confused sea. Two crew members were rescued alive from the ship but five other crew members were never found.

"Ten years does not seen like a long period of time," commented Holyhead RNLI lifeboat press officer Ray Steadman, "but the changes Holyhead RNLI has seen over the years have been phenomenal.

"We’ve seen the introduction of new lifejackets and training is more intense than ever before. We’ve seen people come through the door as youngsters develop into fully fledged competent crew members. Single people walked through the door who are now married, with families of their own but the commitment is still as strong as it ever was.

"Ten years on, these people still appear in freezing conditions, the cold and the rain to drop everything they are doing to help people in trouble at sea. At Christmas or any other time of the year, that’s the level of commitment required to become an RNLI volunteer and we are looking forward to celebrating that dedication."

Full-time coxswain Brian Thomson, who has led his crew through some difficult rescues, added: "Since Christopher Pearce arrived on station she has served the volunteer crew exceptionally well. We have seen some challenging and unique rescues in difficult conditions, but myself and the crew have every confidence in their lifeboat which has grown during the last decade when she has battled gales and rough seas.

"As people around the country prepare for Christmas, we have our own very special cause for celebration in Holyhead and will felt it was only right to mark the occasion with a lasting reminder of those who have served on our much-loved lifeboat Christopher Pearce. 

"The specially commissioned bell is a gift from all the crew to each other which reflects how life boating is all about teamwork and having trust in one another."

A second lifeboat, financed by a legacy from Pearce's brother Andrew after his death in 1988, is stationed at Llandudno and is named Andy Pearce.

The men's mother, Diana Pearce from Cheshire, asked for the money left by her son Christopher to be specifically used for the Holyhead lifeboat, remembering the holidays the family enjoyed in North Wales when the boys were younger.

When the Herald of Free Enterprise ferry sank in the English Channel in 1987, the government and the RNLI agreed that a fast Severn class lifeboat should be at every major ferry port. Holyhead was one of the last stations in the UK to have the improved vessel stationed there - but it is the first in Wales. 

#RNLI - Portrush RNLI's volunteer lifeboat crew received a cheque for £1,052 (€1,249) from Bushmills District and Angling Club recently.

The club, which collects donations throughout the year or the lifesaving charity, made the presentation to Portrush lifeboat operations manager Robin Cardwell at the Co Antrim lifeboat house.

Club chair Vincent McLaughlin said: "Our members value the work of the volunteer crew members and when you are out on the sea, you never know when you are going to need the RNLI.

"It’s always a nice sight to see the lifeboat moored in the harbour ready to go when called. It’s a pleasure to hand this cheque over to the Portrush crew in appreciation of the work they do."

Cardwell added: "The crew really appreciate the donations from our local anglers and are delighted that year on year they continue to show us tremendous support."

#RNLI - Nearly 1,000 people from all over Leinster and beyond took part in the annual RNLI Reindeer Run at Marlay Park on Sunday 1 December.

It was a sea of festive red as entrants in the 5K, 10K and Santa Saunter got into the Christmas spirit by wearing a novelty pair of antlers and a special Reindeer Run T-shirt.

Supporting the runners and walkers around the course this year were lifeboat crew from Dublin’s three stations in Howth, Skerries and Dun Laoghaire. From the latter, Damien Payne was joined by colleague Paul Cummins took an extra step by running the 5K in their full RNLI crew kit.

Also mooing the runners was 98FM’s Teena Gates, who led the warm-up sessions with Rookie the Reindeer. Gates also took part in the short Santa Saunter organised for the event’s younger participants before running in the 5K.

As for the winners? It was Longford man Stephen Farrell who was first around the 10K course while Alison Davidson from Dublin took the honours for the ladies. Nicolae Buceanu won the 5K men’s event while Emer Dillon from Arklow was the first of the women to the finish line.

Speaking after the successful day, RNLI community fundraising manager for Leinster Pauline McGann said: "We were thrilled with how the event went and that so many people turned out to support the RNLI. The atmosphere was great, with children and adults all getting into the Christmas spirit and enjoying the different events.

"It was a great way to kick off the festive season while raising vital funds and we would like to thank everyone who took part."

The Marlay Park Reindeer Run was sponsored by Green Property, Haines Fleet and SuperValu Malahide.