Donate now

Wexford RNLI volunteer passes lifeboat crew assessment

Lifeboats News Release

Wexford RNLI volunteer crew member Edel Ennis has successfully achieved full crew status, marking a significant milestone in her training and development as a member of the station's operational team.

Wexford RNLI volunteer crewmember Edel Ennis with Training Assessor Lenny after her successful assessment

RNLI/Lorraine Galvin

All volunteer crew must go through a rigorous training scheme, known as the Operational Competency Framework. This is Edel's third successful assessment, and the most demanding to date, as crew must demonstrate competencies in helming, navigation, helicopter operations, hydrology and risk assessments.

Edel is now recognised as being competent to undertake a broader range of operational duties during lifeboat launches. The achievement reflects months of commitment, dedication and hard work, balancing training with volunteering and personal commitments.

Speaking after completing her assessment, Edel Ennis said:
"I'm delighted to have passed this assessment. It's been a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey, and I couldn't have done it without the support and encouragement of the rest of the crew. I'm looking forward to continuing my training, gaining more experience and playing an even bigger role in helping those who need us."

The RNLI relies on volunteers giving their time to train regularly so they are ready to respond whenever the pager sounds. Continuous training and assessment ensure crews maintain the skills and confidence needed to save lives at sea. If you would like know more about how you could volunteer with Wexford RNLI message through Facebook or email [email protected]

Ends

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Lorraine Galvin, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Ireland, [email protected]

Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Ireland, 087 648 3547, [email protected]

Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Ireland, 087 125 4124, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [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.