Aran Islands RNLI volunteer, Noel Seoighe, completed his final assessment after months of hard work and determination and is now the ready to take command of the David Kirkaldy, all weather lifeboat.
Noel Seoighe has been volunteering with the Aran Islands RNLI for over 15 years. He began his journey with the RNLI as crew and in 2024, he qualified as an all-weather lifeboat navigator.
Noel was evaluated by Sean Ginnelly, Coastal Lifeboat Trainer, for over three and a half hours. To pass out as coxswain, Noel had a series of assessments both on and offshore including search and rescue, navigation command and emergency procedures.
Noel says: "It is very rewarding to be part of such a vital service that helps people. My uncles were part of the crew in the 70’s and 80’s so it is great to be able to play my part."
When thinking back about his 15 years with the RNLI and all the stories and relationships he has gained he is reminded of how his life had almost started out on the lifeboat: "Dr Marion Broderick, reminded me that mom was rushed out on the lifeboat on Christmas Eve many years ago to give birth to me. Dr Broderick's husband, Máirtín Fitzpatrick, was part of the crew that night. It is cool that I got to work on the lifeboat with Máirtín in my earlier years as a crew member."
The RNLI provides lifeboat coverage 365 days a year and this boosts the number of coxswains available to ensure the Aran Islands Lifeboat Station fulfils this commitment. Noel will be on call as coxswain in the upcoming weeks and RNLI wish him the best of luck in his new role.
