Visiting Kerry RNLI member among Arranmore crew in Sunday morning operation

A visiting crewman from Valentia Island RNLI was among those to take part in an operation with Arranmore RNLI on Sunday morning.

And he was full of praise for the crew, first responders and everyone involved in the operation.

The Arranmore crew were asked to assist in a medical evacuation from the island by the Malin Head Coast Guard at 8am on Sunday, June 30. 

The volunteer first responders of the Arranmore ambulance delivered the patient to Leabgarrow pier and the patient was then transferred to the lifeboat. On arrival at Burtonport the patient was transferred to a waiting ambulance and then on to Letterkenny University Hospital for assessment.

Sean Curtin from Valentia Island took part in the operation in his capacity as relief coxswain. Other crew members were mechanic Philip Mc Cauley, Sharon O’Donnell, Sean O’Donnell, Finbar Gallagher, Mickey Mc Hugh and Seán Gallagher.

Mr Curtin is a regional resilience coxswain and mechanic with the RNLI. He travels to various RNLI stations in Ireland and further afield to fill in for local crews who are on leave. This is his fourth time with the Arranmore RNLI.

He said: “I would like to wish the patient a speedy recovery and thank the volunteer crew for responding so quickly to the call. 

“I would also like to commend them on their efficiency and knowledge of the area which made my job very easy. They are a credit to the RNLI, as are the first responders of the ambulance. 

“Obviously, the volunteer ethic is very strong on Arranmore island and I’m delighted to work alongside them once again.”