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Aran Islands RNLI responds to a medical evacuation from neighbouring island

Lifeboats News Release

Aran Islands RNLI's volunteer crew were asked to launch their all-weather Severn class lifeboat last night (Sunday 21 March) at 8.13pm by the Irish Coast Guard.

RNLI/Aran Islands

Aran Islands RNLI

A local man on the neighboring island of Inis Meáin with a facial injury was in need of further medical attention.

The lifeboat launched under Coxswain John O'Donnell and a full crew and headed straight for Inis Meáin.

Conditions at the time of launching were good, with calm seas, a slight breeze and clear visibility.

Once at the pier in Inis Meáin, the patient was transferred safely aboard the lifeboat by the volunteer crew. Following all strict Covid-19 health and safety guidelines, the lifeboat then processed straight for Rossaveal Harbour and the waiting ambulance.

Speaking after the call out, Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain John O'Donnell said:

'There was a quick response time by the volunteer crew to get the patient to the medical attention needed. The crew never hesitate to answer their pagers when they go off. We would like to wish the patient a speedy recovery.'

Ends

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The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.

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