Mayo lifeboat station launches major recruitment campaign

Achill Island RNLI is looking for people who live or work locally to the lifeboat station, to fill the roles of volunteer crew and launch authority, at one of the most scenic locations in Ireland. The recruitment campaign is being launched during the station’s 30th anniversary year.

Three new volunteer lifeboat crew members are being sought for the station’s Trent class lifeboat Sam and Ada Moody, which has served the community of Achill for nearly 30 years, along with three launch authorities.

The station which sits on the south-east of the island in Cloughmore is seeking people aged between 18 and 65 who live or work in the local area surrounding Achill to get in touch.

Achill Island Coxswain Dave Curtis said: “We are a close-knit crew, ready day and night, every day of the year to help save lives at sea. Located where we are, we can be called on to help people in difficulty off our coast, those in offshore island communities and seafarers. We are very proud of our lifesaving history and are keen to ensure that we continue to save lives at sea well into the future.

“We know from experience that many people would love to get involved but are not sure if they would be suitable or how to go about it. We’d love to hear from those interested and have a chat to answer any questions. The reward that comes from helping someone in trouble on the water or bringing them home to grateful family and friends is something you cannot explain,” he said. 

Dave added that being a good communicator and team player is vital. “Successful applicants who have passed a medical examination would begin their training at the lifeboat station here in Achill, by getting to know the lifeboat and the personal protective equipment they will have to wear and use at sea. Training moves at their pace.” 

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The role of Launch Authority is not a sea-going one but the person who holds it is responsible for the launch of the lifeboat when a call for help comes in. They also ensure the lifeboats and all associated equipment is in a constant state of readiness for launching on service.

Applications close on the Sunday, April 12 and people interested can get in touch via the email: recruitment@rnli.org.uk.