Crosshaven RNLI is the latest winner of the Cork International Hotel Community Spirit Awards for their commitment to the local community.
The station has circa 50 volunteers across many roles including seagoing crew, launch and recovery crews, station management, sea safety and education crews and fundraising volunteers who dedicate their time tirelessly to save lives at sea.
The crew aims to be launched and underway within 10 minutes of being requested to launch by the Irish Coast Guard. They operate 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
The award recognised the sacrifices made by the volunteers who drop everything - work, meal time or family time - to make their way to the station and respond to the call. All operational crews also undergo continuous training and assessments.
The RNLI relies on donations and legacies to fund and maintain the lifeboat service with the fundraising volunteers playing a pivotal role in the community.
In March, Crosshaven RNLI will celebrate being 25 years old with nine of the original crew still volunteering at the station.
Vincent O'Donovan, Publisher of The Carrigdhoun Newspaper thanked the members of the RNLI past and present for the commitment they have had made an organisation that is at the centre of the Crosshaven community. "Since its inception, members of the RNLI have made a pledge to helping others, even if it means sacrificing their own time. When they are called to service, they act with courage and bravery and are inspiration to all. Crosshaven RNLI are deserved winners of this award."
General Manager of the Cork International Hotel, Eoghan Murphy said“The Crosshaven RNLI play a vital role in the local community with so many people selflessly giving their time to help lives at sea. I am thrilled to honour them with the Community Spirit Award. They are a tremendous example of what a community can achieve when they work together. Crosshaven RNLI makes such a difference to the people around them. I wish everyone at Crosshaven RNLI the very busy and am delight to honour them for their tireless work.”
Last year, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution celebrated its 200th year of saving life at sea.
The Community Spirit Awards recognise people who continuously give their time and dedication to the benefit of others.
The judging panel for the Community Spirit Awards are made up of a mixture of representatives from the public and private sector within the community.
Nominations are open for next month's awards at: https://www.corkinternationalairporthotel.com/community-spirit-awards/