New Union Hall RNLI crew member among Cork lifesavers on call this Christmas
The RNLI is launching its Christmas fundraising appeal, as its volunteer lifeboat crews across Cork including those at Youghal, Ballycotton, Crosshaven, Kinsale, Courtmacsherry, Union Hall, Castletownbere and Baltimore, selflessly prepare to spend their Christmas on call.
On average, RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period* every year, with 119 launches in 2024.
Whatever weather winter throws at them, RNLI crews including are ready to leave their celebrations with friends and family to battle the elements and save lives at sea.
These rescues, and others all year round, are only made possible by the RNLI’s generous supporters, helping to fund the essential kit, training and equipment needed to keep crews prepared and protected.
Christmas is a time for family and friends, but the RNLI’s volunteer crews are ready to leave their own celebrations this festive season and answer the call for help.
Among those preparing for their first Christmas on call is Muireann O’Donnell at Union Hall RNLI.
Muireann joined as crew this year after being inspired by her own dad, Aodh O’Donnell, who is helm and a Local Trainer Assessor.
Muireann, an Assistant Marine Co-ordinator and in construction for film and television, knew from a young age that she wanted to be out on the sea.
Muireann said: ‘I always knew I was going to have something to do with search and rescue, then in 2014 Union Hall RNLI’s lifeboat station opened. I knew straight away I wanted to join when I was old enough. Dad is a brilliant role model - if only I could learn half of what he knows. I truly wouldn’t be the person I am today without him, I am so lucky to be able to learn from him and the other helms and crew at the station.’
As for what she finds most rewarding, she says: ‘Being a part of something bigger than you know, it’s something indescribable. We do it for the people, the families and friends. We go out to rescue those in trouble; it is such an important job. We always say someone has to do it and I’m happy that I am now one of those people.’
As for preparing for a Christmas on call, Muireann says the approach will be the same as every other day of the year: ‘Whether it’s hot summer’s day or a miserable winter’s night, we are always there to help. People should never be afraid to call for help, we would much rather be called and stood down then not called at all, no matter what day it is.’
‘There’s no feeling quite like bringing someone home safe to their families – especially at Christmas. Even at this time of year, people still get in trouble in the water, and we’re all prepared to leave our own celebrations to help them.
‘But as volunteer lifeboat crew we couldn’t launch without kind donations from the public which fund the kit, training and equipment we need to save others and get home safely to our own families.’
To make a donation to the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal, and enable the charity to continue its lifesaving work, visit: RNLI.org/WinterAppeal
Ends
*Christmas period refers to 24 December – 1 January inclusive and launch statistics cover the RNLI in Ireland and the UK.
2024: 119
2023: 120
2022: 102
2021: 107
2020: 108
RNLI media contacts
For information please contact Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead Tel: 087 1254 124 email: [email protected] or Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager Tel: 087 648 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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
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.