RNLI puts out its Mayday call as charity’s lifeboats launch 967 times across Ireland in 2025
- Pat Nolan
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
Tuesday 15 April 2026
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has released its latest annual statistics, revealing the scale of its lifesaving work across the island of Ireland. In the past year, lifeboats launched 967 times from 46 stations, bringing 912 people to safety. Of those rescues, 17 were classified as lives saved. Notably, 280 of the launches took place in the hours of darkness, highlighting the round-the-clock commitment of RNLI crews.
These figures underline the growing demand placed on volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards, who respond to emergencies in often challenging and unpredictable conditions. In response, the RNLI is issuing its own call for support, encouraging the public to take part in its biggest annual fundraising initiative, the Mayday Mile.
The campaign challenges participants to cover one mile a day throughout the month of May. Whether walking, running, or cycling, every mile completed helps raise vital funds. The money collected goes directly toward ensuring that RNLI lifesavers have the training, equipment, and resources they need to continue protecting lives at sea and along the coast.
With summer approaching and more people heading to the water, the RNLI hopes the Mayday Mile will inspire widespread community involvement and support for a service that remains essential to coastal safety.
Aonghus Ó hIarnáin, Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain said: ‘Each year we see how quickly things can change on the water. Our crews are always ready to respond, but we can only do what we do thanks to the public’s generosity. This May, we’re asking people to step up and support us through the Mayday Mile so we can keep saving lives when it matters most. The new figures show just how demanding last year was. Every launch represents someone in urgent need — and our volunteers drop everything to help. With summer approaching, Mayday is our chance to make sure we have the equipment and training needed for whatever comes next.’
Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, said: ‘These latest statistics make it clear that our lifesaving service remains as vital as ever. Whether it’s paddleboarders caught by offshore winds, walkers stranded by the tide or boaters in difficulty, our crews are answering calls every day of the year.
‘Taking part in the Mayday Mile is a simple way for people to support our volunteers. Every pound raised helps ensure our crews can launch at a moment’s notice — and be there for families when they need us most.’
To sign up for the Mayday Mile, or to make a donation in support of the RNLI’s lifesavers, visit RNLI.org/supportMayday
