The Aran Island RNLI lifeboat was called out to perform a medical evacuation from Inis Meain on Monday afternoon.
The Coast Guard sent the request for the lifeboat’s volunteer crew to come aid a person in need of medical attention on the neighbouring island shortly after 3pm yesterday.
The lifeboat launched from the pontoon at Kilronan Harbour with a full crew and headed straight for Inis Meáin.
Weather conditions at the time of launching were fair, with a westerly force 5 wind blowing, a 2m sea swell, squally showers and good visibility.
At the pier in Inis Meáin, the patient was transferred safely aboard the lifeboat under the supervision of the volunteer crew and headed straight for Rossaveal Harbour and the waiting ambulance.
On the way back to Kilronan Harbour, the lifeboat undertook a training exercise with the Irish Coast Guard’s Rescue 118 helicopter from Sligo, in Galway Bay.
Speaking after the call out, Coxswain Declan Brannigan said, “There was a quick response time from the volunteer crew and we would like to wish the patient well.”
“No matter the time, day or night, our volunteers will work to ensure we get to the patient as fast as possible and transfer them into the care of our colleagues in he ambulance service.”
“We also thank our colleagues from Rescue 118 for the training exercise that followed after. Such training is essential in preparing us for joint operational activity as and when the time arises.”
Crew on the call out included Coxswain Declan Brannigan, mechanic Tommy Dirrane, Joe Gill, Micheál Ó Culáin, Caelan Cullen Quinn and Billy Gillan.
