Fenit RNLI’s new Shannon Class lifeboat answers first call-out
Thursday 17 September 2026
Fenit RNLI’s new Shannon class lifeboat, Roy Barker VII, was called into service for the first time this morning (Thursday, 17 September) following a report of a person believed to be in difficulty in the sea west of Fenit Pier.
The volunteer lifeboat crew was requested to launch at 10.21am by the Irish Coast Guard after a member of the public raised the alarm over a surfer reportedly in difficulty.
Both Fenit RNLI lifeboats were launched, with the new Shannon class lifeboat operating alongside the station’s inshore D class lifeboat.
The Shannon was under the command of Coxswain John J Moriarty with four crew members on board, while the D class was helmed by Terry Sheehy with two crew members.
At the time, the lifeboats were operating in fresh sea conditions, with Force 4 to 5 southwesterly winds and a swell of approximately two metres.
Once on scene, the crews located a windsurfer who confirmed that they were not in need of assistance. The lifeboats were subsequently stood down and returned to station.
Speaking following the call-out, Fergus Kelliher, Fenit RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, said the member of the public had done the right thing in raising the alarm.
“While this was a false alarm with good intent this morning, we would like to take the opportunity to commend the member of the public who raised the alarm when they had a genuine concern for somebody, that is always the right thing to do if you think you see someone in difficulty in the water.
“This was a milestone morning for our new Shannon class lifeboat, the Roy Barker VII, which only at 2pm on Tuesday, was declared a search and rescue asset by the Irish Coast Guard.
“The first call out for the new lifeboat comes as we now complete the transition from a Trent to a Shannon class lifeboat. This has involved intensive training and assessments for our volunteers in recent months and with that, a huge amount of time and selfless dedication from all involved including our volunteers’ families and we wish to express a sincere thank you and well done to all the team.”
The call-out marks an important milestone for Fenit RNLI as the station completes its transition from the former Trent class lifeboat to the new Shannon class Roy Barker VII. The transition has involved extensive training and assessment of the station’s volunteer crew in recent months.
