RNLI crew members honoured for their part in rescue of kayaker

TWO young volunteer crew members from the Arranmore RNLI are being recognised for their part in the dangerous rescue of a kayaker.

JJ O’Donnell and Evan O’Donnell were both involved in the search for kayaker Malachy Doyle who was eventually rescued from a cave in treacherous conditions.

The incident happened in September 2023 when as part of the rescue effort, JJ and Evan boarded the RNLI’s Y boat – a rigid, inflatable boat capable of searching in confined areas.

Following an extensive search by the Arranmore RNLI and several local boats, Malachy was discovered in a cave on Owey Island. 

With only the smallest window of opportunity due to the large swell entering the cave, the two boys went into the cave  where they located Malachy on a ledge and brought him to  safety on board the all weather lifeboat. 

JJ O’Donnell and Evan O’Donnell

This Saturday afternoon at a special event at Arranmore lifeboat station, Malachy will present JJ and Evan with certificates of commendation from the RNLI.

Malachy is an award winning writer for children, living on Cruit Island. He is an active hiker and runner. 

In his own words, Malachy had been a keen kayaker, until the day a freak wave tossed him into the water and he found himself trapped in a deep cave and in dire need of rescue. 

After 30 minutes in the water, followed by three frightening hours on a narrow ledge in the cave his sense of relief at seeing his rescuers was immense. 

Coxswain Sean O’Donnell, who was coxswain on the day of the rescue said “This recognition is well deserved for JJ and Evan. Their competence and professionalism is a credit to themselves, their family and of the extensive training all crew members receive from the RNLI in order to save lives at sea’. 

Saturday’s event will take place at 4pm.

If you see anyone in difficulty on the water please dial 999/112 and ask for the Coast Guard.