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Aran Islands RNLI responds to back to back medical evacuations from Inis Mór

Lifeboats News Release

Aran Islands RNLI responded to two medical evacuation requests last night (Wednesday 18 October).

RNLI/Nuala McAloon

The pagers were first activated at 7.10pm following a report that a patient on Inis Mór was in need of further medical attention.

The patient was transferred safely aboard the lifeboat under the supervision of the volunteer crew at the pontoon at Kilronan Harbour.

The lifeboat launched under Coxwain Aonghus Ó HIarnáin and a full crew of volunteers. Conditions at the time of launching were choppy with an easterly force 4 wind blowing and a 2metre sea swell.

Upon transferring the patient over to the waiting ambulance, the volunteers made their way home, where upon arrival, they were requested to launch the lifeboat again, with another patient on Inis Mór in need of further medical attention.

The patient was transferred safely aboard the lifeboat and the crew headed straight for Rossaveal Harbour and the awaiting ambulance.

Speaking after the double call-out, Coxwain Aonghus Ó HIarnáin said: 'We would like to wish both patients a speedy recovery. As always our crew never hesitate to answer the call and were delighted to be able to help.'

Weather conditions at the time of launching were, a force 5-6 easterly wind blowing with slight seas. There was reasonable visibility.

Aran Islands RNLI crew included Coxswain Aonghus Ó HIarnáin, mechanic Mairtín Eoin Coyne, Joe Gill, Daniel O'Connell, Caelan Cullen Quinn, Billy Gillan and Michael Faherty.

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 142,700 lives.

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