Irish Coast Guard Responded to 2,554 Incidents in 2024

The Irish Coast Guard had a busy and eventful year in 2024, with 44 units mobilized on 1,154 occasions. Coast Guard helicopters conducted 752 missions and provided critical assistance to 537 individuals, preventing loss of life and ensuring they received necessary medical care. Additionally, the helicopters conducted 134 air ambulance flights to support offshore island communities, while the Royal National Lifeboat Institution launched lifeboats 699 times and the community inshore rescue service responded to 73 taskings.

Throughout the year, the Coast Guard coordinated 2,554 incidents, including search and rescue operations, maritime casualty responses, and pollution preparedness. The Irish Coast Guard continued to support communities by providing air ambulance flights and collaborating with the wider search and rescue community. In December 2024, the first two AW189 helicopters under a new aviation service contract began operations in Shannon, with four more scheduled for delivery in the new year.

The phased transition to the new contract prioritized the safety of helicopter crews, Coast Guard members, and stakeholders. Collaboration between contractors, the Department of Transport, and the search and rescue community was key to achieving this milestone. Three more SAR bases will transition to the new contract in the first half of 2025, and the Coast Guard looks forward to welcoming the first fixed-wing aircraft to the fleet. Ms. Joanna Cullen, Assistant Secretary General at the Department of Transport, commended the Irish Coast Guard’s dedication in keeping the coastline safe and wished everyone a happy and safe New Year in 2025. If you see someone in trouble on the water or coast, contact the Coast Guard through marine VHF Ch 16 or by dialing 112.

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