The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Rescue unit honours late Cian
KILLARNEY WATER RESCUE PAYS TRIBUTE TO CIAN, WHOSE FAMILY IS AMONG UNIT’S BIGGEST SUPPORTERS
THE DEATH of 19-year-old Glenflesk man Cian O’Donogue was a tragedy. It’s coming up on seven years since he drowned in Lough Leane while out swimming with friends.
But, sometimes, tragedies such as the one that befell Cian can lead to great actions by those left most heartbroken. His family are a case in point. Killarney Water Rescue was involved in the recovery of Cian’s body, and his family’s support of the unit began right away.
They have set up several fund-raisers on behalf of Killarney Water Rescue, such as a charity walk and coffee morning. But even at that, when fund-raisers were held but not set up by Cian’s family, they were always happy to get involved.
Fitting, then, that a new, state-of-the-art, 6.5-metre rib – which has been purchased by the unit after five years’ worth of fund-raising – has been named ‘Cian’, in the Gortahoosh man’s honour.
“It cost €60,000, and was built from scratch in Barnet, England, to the unit’s specifications,” said Killarney Water Rescue Communications Officer
Sinéad Sweetman.
“Around €44,000 of that came from the South Kerry Development Partnership LEADER fund, while we had to raise the other €16,000.
“Cian’s family have been to the forefront of fundraising. They held a number of fund-raisers for us, but even when it wasn’t them who instigated a fundraiser, they were there to help, whether it was a collection, bag-packing, or so on. For example, his sister, Klara, took part in a sky dive for us not so long ago
“And it wasn’t just his nearest relations either, his parents and his siblings. It was all Cian’s relations, near and far.”
“Everyone you talk to that knew Cian would tell you he was a lovely boy, very nice and genuine, and that comes through with his family.
“He was a very talented actor and artist, and someone who had a lot to give.”
Killarney Water Rescue is best-known as an inshore unit but has also been known to extend its work to the seas. However, while the three older ribs are able for inshore rescue, they are no longer suitable for sea work.
Therefore, this new boat, tweaked to suit the unit’s needs, comes as a major boost.
It had its launch recently at Torc boathouse, and it’s a piece of equipment that would measure up to navy and coastguard standards, Sinéad explained.
It’s got a 145-horsepower, four-stroke engine and is equipped with GPS and depth-finding technology, amongst other things.
It got the welcome it deserved with a launch attended by Cathaoirleach Cllr Niall Kelleher, John Draper (Valentia Coastguard), family members of Cian, Killarney Mountain Rescue members – who work closely with the unit – and many others.
Sinéad explained that the unit is always open to new members – and whatever you feel you can give, whether as part of the rescue team or as a volunteer – you’ll be made welcome.
“You don’t necessarily have to be on a boat or part of a dive unit,” Sinéad said. “For example, we always need people to help with fund-raising, public relations, and so on. So if you have time to give to us, get in touch.”
You can contact Sineád at (087) 235 9466 if interested.