First Christmas on call for RNLI rookie
“There’s no feeling quite like bringing someone home safe to their families – especially at Christmas.”
The committed words of new Union Hall RNLI crew member Muireann O’Donnell who is preparing for her first Christmas on call with the lifesaving charity having joined this year.
The daughter of Union Hall RNLI helm Aodh O’Donnell, Muireann knew from a young age she wanted to be out on the sea.
She 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.”
For Muireann, who is an assistant marine co-ordinator and works in construction for film and television, being part of a team that works to help others is an “indescribable” feeling.
“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,” said Muireann.
As for preparing for her first Christmas on call, Muireann said the approach will be the same as every other day of the year.
“Whether it’s a hot summer’s day or a miserable winter’s night, we are always there to help,” she said.
“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.
“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,” added Muireann.
As volunteer lifeboat service, the RNLI would be unable to launch a single vessel without kind donations from the public. To that end, the charity has launched its Christmas fundraising appeal as its volunteer crews at Youghal, Ballycotton, Crosshaven, Kinsale, Courtmacsherry, Union Hall, Castletownbere and Baltimore selflessly prepare to spend their Christmas on call.
On average, each year RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period from 24 December to 1 January, with 119 launches recorded in 2024.