Wexford RNLI's New Lifeboat Faces Challenging First Call-Out During Storm Boelo

Wexford RNLI volunteers battled winds of up to Force 9 and rough seas during the first emergency call-out for the station's new lifeboat over the Bank Holiday weekend.

The crew were tasked by the Irish Coast Guard at 3.20pm on Saturday, October 24th, following reports of a windsurfer in difficulty near Ardcavan Beach in Wexford Harbour.

The lifeboat, Cill Dara, was launched under the command of Helm Damien Foley as Storm Boelo brought severe weather conditions to the area.

By the time the crew reached the scene, the windsurfer had managed to make it safely ashore without assistance.

However, the return journey proved particularly challenging, with the lifeboat battling Force 9 winds, waves reaching one-and-a-half metres and poor visibility.

The call-out marked the first operational launch of Cill Dara, which was funded through an incredible €117,000 raised by the Kildare RNLI Fundraising Branch.

Praising his crew, Damien Foley said:

"The crew did exceptionally well handling the difficult weather conditions out on the water. It was a challenging first shout for our new lifeboat, Cill Dara, but everyone performed brilliantly."

He also reminded people heading out on the water to check weather and tide forecasts, wear suitable flotation devices and carry a means of calling for help.

Anyone who gets into difficulty, or spots someone in trouble on or near the water, should dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.