Irish Coast Guard: A Review of 2024
2024 was another busy and eventful year for the Irish Coast Guard.
Year in Review
The Irish Coast Guard was actively involved in various operations throughout the year. Here are some key figures:
- The 44 Coast Guard Units were mobilised on 1,154 separate occasions.
- Coast Guard Helicopters conducted 752 missions.
- Critical assistance was provided to 537 persons, preventing loss of life and delivering them to appropriate medical care.
- 134 air ambulance flights were conducted in support of offshore island communities.
- Royal National Lifeboat Institution lifeboats were launched on 699 occasions.
- Community inshore rescue service was launched for 73 taskings in 2024.
Overall, the Coast Guard coordinated 2,554 incidents, including search and rescue, maritime casualty responses, and pollution and preparedness responses. The 44 Irish Coast Guard Units played a crucial role in responding to emergencies throughout the year.
Operational Highlights
In December 2024, the first two AW189 helicopters provided by Bristow Ireland Limited under the new aviation service contract began operation in Shannon. The remaining four helicopters are set for delivery in the upcoming year.
The transition to the new contract prioritized the safety of helicopter crews, Irish Coast Guard members, and other stakeholders. Positive collaboration between contractors and the Department of Transport facilitated this milestone.
Three other SAR bases are in the process of transitioning to the new contract and are expected to start operations in the first half of 2025. Additionally, the Irish Coast Guard anticipates welcoming the first fixed-wing aircraft to the IRCG fleet soon.
Message from Ms Joanna Cullen
Ms Joanna Cullen, Assistant Secretary General at the Department of Transport overseeing the Irish Coast Guard, commended the dedication of all Coast Guard members in keeping the Irish coastline safe. She expressed gratitude to the staff at the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres for their vigilance, especially during the holiday season.
The Irish Coast Guard extends warm wishes for a happy and safe New Year in 2025 to all.
If you encounter someone in distress on the water or along the coast, remember to use marine VHF Ch 16 or dial 112 and request assistance from the Coast Guard.