Latest news with #WaterSafetyIreland
Sunday World
5 days ago
- Climate
- Sunday World
Water safety warning for Bank Holiday weekend following ‘alarming' rise in number of drownings
'In May 2025, the number of drownings has doubled compared to the same period in 2024, bringing tragic loss to families across the country' A water safety warning has been issued ahead of the June Bank Holiday weekend following an 'alarming' rise in the number of drownings so far this year. With a ten per cent increase in drownings so far this year, compared to the same period last year, the Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are urging the public to take extra precautions. Although the weather forecast is for heavy showers, low temperatures and strong breezes this weekend, more people are expected to visit beaches, lakes, and rivers. Stock image News in 90 Seconds - May 29th The RNLI said now is the time to prioritise safety by checking the weather and tides before heading out. 'And if walking the shoreline, be vigilant for incoming tides that can cause strandings,' the advice reads. 'Be aware of rip currents - strong currents can pull even the most experienced swimmers out to sea and swim with others. 'Also, let someone ashore know of your plans and return time." Recent drowning tragedies include those of Matt Sibanda (18) who will be laid to rest following his funeral mass this Saturday. Matt was one of two teenagers who died when they got into difficulty while swimming off Buncrana on May 10 last. His friend, Emmanuel Familola (16) was laid to rest on May 17. Kevin Whitney, Head of Operations Section at the Irish Coast Guard highlighted the alarming rise in drownings this year. 'In May 2025, the number of drownings has doubled compared to the same period in 2024, bringing tragic loss to families across the country,' he said. 'As the June bank holiday typically marks the start of summer celebrations for many, we are urging everyone to be mindful of the dangers, plan ahead, and follow the appropriate safety guidelines for your activity.' Further water safety advice is available by visiting
Irish Independent
26-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
Recent drowning tragedies prompt call for swimming lessons on school curriculum
The demand was made by Senator Alison Comyn this week following the tragic deaths of a number of young people around the country while bathing in recent weeks. Education Minister Helen McEntee is to be called to the Seanad to discuss the proposal. Senator Comyn said: "The recent tragic loss of three young lives to drowning serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritise water safety education in our schools. "My condolences to the families of Emmanuel Familola and his friend Matt Sibanda who lost their lives in Donegal and of seven year old Alan Singh who sadly drowned in Sligo. "It is hard to believe that in Ireland an average of ten people drown every month. "Given our island nation's extensive coastline, lakes and rivers, and of course the popularity of sea swimming, it is vital every child acquires essential swimming and water safety skills." The Drogheda based mother of two told the Seanad that Water Safety Ireland currently offers the primary aquatics water safety , PAWS, programme in primary schools , aiming to teach the most basic water safety knowledge. But she warned: "The teaching of practical swimming lessons remains haphazard however often held up by limited access to facilities and funding. "This disparity leaves many children, particularly of underserved communities, very vulnerable. "Research shows the life saving potential of swimming lessons which can reduce the risk of drowning by 88pc in children aged between one and four. "Other European countries have integrated swimming lessons into their school curricula, recognising the critical role of early water skills education in safeguarding children. "Ireland can draw inspiration from these models to ensure comprehensive water safety education for all students." She called for a co-ordinated national effort to include investing in swimming infrastructure, subsidising lessons to make them accessible to all, and training educators to deliver effective water safety instruction. Senator Comyn added; "I request a debate in the House with the Minister for Education on making swimming lessons an integral part of the school system in order that we can equip our children with the skills they need to enjoy Ireland's waterways safely and prevent future tragedies." The Leader of the Seanad Sean Kyne supported her move and said he will request a debate with Helen McEntee, the Education Minister. He added; "It makes eminent sense to encourage youngsters to learn to swim as early as possible. An ability to swim would make a difference in terms of saving their own lives and perhaps being able to save other people." A few years ago in 2019, a 14 year old local girl, Jill Amante died while swimming in Termonfeckin after getting pulled out to sea by a local riptide.
The Irish Sun
23-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
Heartbreaking first picture of ‘lovely' man, 41, who drowned at popular Cork fishing spot as pals pay tribute to ‘gem'
A "LOVELY soul" who went swimming after a fishing trip to the River Blackwater yesterday lost his life doing what he loved most, fishing. Simon O'Connell, aged 41 and from Meelaherragh, Kanturk in Co Advertisement The alarm was raised shortly after this and emergency services including The body was later His body was then removed to A file is also being prepared for the Coroner's Court in North Cork and an inquest will take place at a later date. Advertisement READ MORE IRISH NEWS Funeral arrangements have been announced as his heartbroken family prepare for their final farewell.. Simon is the son of James and Nancy and brother of James and Barry. He is sadly missed by his family, uncles, aunts, nephews Jamie and Danny, niece Isla, relative and friends. His Requiem Mass takes place tomorrow at 10.30am in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Kanturk followed by his funeral afterwards to the Island Crematorium in Ringaskiddy. Advertisement MOST READ ON THE IRISH SUN The family have asked for their home, where Simon will be resting, to be private. Urgent warning for Irish parents as RNLI issues major water safety advice ahead of school holidays In messages of condolence one friend said 'Simon buddy you will be sadly missed by everyone. You were a gem, a good ole soul and great fun. Loved your music, really just a good friend to everyone'. Another wrote 'What a lovely soul, shared so many good times with ya, may you sleep easy pal'. And another said 'So sorry to hear of the death of Simon, what a gifted man.' Advertisement This is the fourth drowning incident in Ireland over the past two weeks. WATER TRAGEDIES On May 10, Emmanuel Familola and Matt Sibanda sadly passed away after On May 17, Alan Singh, from Ballisodare in Co Alan was Advertisement New figures show that 78 people drowned nationwide last year. And Water Safety Ireland has appealed to the public to understand the risks, warning that a third of summer drowning take place in June. Chair of Water Safety Ireland, Clare McGrath, said: "Ireland is currently enjoying warmer weather, however our waterways are still quite cold. "Please don't underestimate the risk of cold water or overestimate your ability to swim in cooler open waters that have hidden currents. Advertisement "Swim in areas that are traditionally known to be safe, stay within your depth and supervise children closely.' 1 Simon O'Connell was an avid fisherman Credit:
Irish Independent
21-05-2025
- Climate
- Irish Independent
Water safety appeal issued as 78 people drowned last year, new figures show
Thirteen children drowned in Ireland over the last two years including nine young people in 2023 and four last year, provisional figures show. It comes following the deaths of three boys under the age of 18 across a two-week period. Seven-year-old Alan Singh died after getting into difficulty in the sea at a beach in Co Sligo on Saturday afternoon. His school principal Mary Curley described Alan, who was from Ballisodare, as a 'much-loved pupil' who was 'always smiling, warm, and full of kindness'. "He was friendly, hardworking, and a talented young artist who brought joy and creativity to our classrooms. His gentle nature and positive spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.' Last weekend there was a double tragedy in Co Donegal when schoolboys, Emmanuel Familola (16) and Matt Sibanda (18), died after getting into difficulty in the water at Ned's Point, Buncrana, last Saturday. The young boys were playing football on the shoreline and had entered the water to retrieve the ball when the tragedy unfolded. Water Safety Ireland is appealing to the public to exert caution near water, following the death of 56 men and 22 women last year, according to provisional figures. "78 people drowned in 2024, the same as in 2023 which is thankfully lower than the ten-year average of 112 but still a tragic unnecessary loss of life,' said the Chair of Water Safety Ireland, Clare McGrath. "Ireland is currently enjoying warmer weather, however our waterways are still quite cold. Please don't underestimate the risk of cold water or overestimate your ability to swim in cooler open waters that have hidden currents. "Swim in areas that are traditionally known to be safe, stay within your depth and supervise children closely.' A total of 1,124 people drowned in Ireland in the last ten years, a period when 1,515 died on Irish roads. Drowning accounted for 43pc of this combined total of 2,639 road and water deaths.
Irish Daily Mirror
19-05-2025
- Climate
- Irish Daily Mirror
Ireland's waters claimed 78 lives in a year as urgent safety appeal issued
Water Safety Ireland is calling for the public to be more cautious as 78 people drowned last year. This is the same figure as 2023, and 34 fewer than the ten-year average. Males are far more likely to be victims of drowning in Ireland. Some 56 of those who drowned last year were male and 22 were female, while four of these were under the age of 18. National Safety Awareness Week kicked off on Monday as the campaign appeals for people to enjoy the water, but respect the risk. Chair of Water Safety Ireland Clare McGrath said: 'Ireland is currently enjoying warmer weather, however our waterways are still quite cold. "Please don't underestimate the risk of cold water or overestimate your ability to swim in cooler open waters that have hidden currents. Swim in areas that are traditionally known to be safe, stay within your depth and supervise children closely.' The campaign kicks off as over a quarter of summer drownings happen in June, with 43% of all drowning cases happening between June and August. Ms McGrath continued: 'Now is the time during National Water Safety Awareness Week to learn how to enjoy the water and respect the risk. 'With a little preparation and awareness, everyone can enjoy the water more confidently and safely. This is not about restriction—it's about empowerment. By taking simple steps, people can make water activities safer and more enjoyable for all.' In the last five years, males accounted for 69% of all drownings and those in their 40s, 50s and 60s are the most at-risk age groups. Notably, 67% of all accidental drownings followed land-based activities—such as walking, hiking, foraging, fishing from the shoreline, cycling, or driving—underscoring how quickly everyday situations can turn hazardous near water. Water Safety Ireland has given ten tips to swimmers and parents to enjoy open water safely this summer. These include never leaving children unattended near water, wearing life jackets during boating or water sports, swimming with a companion, and knowing your ability. Swimmers should also follow safety signs, check the weather forecast and water conditions and swim close to lifeguards. Next month lifeguards will begin patrolling across the country, and their working hours can be checked on Water Safety Ireland's website. Adults are also warned to never swim or operate a watercraft under the influence of alcohol. This comes as a young boy tragically died over the weekend after getting into difficulty in the water at Lissadell Beach, Sligo. Seven-year-old Alan Singh was airlifted to Sligo University Hospital at around 3.30pm on Saturday, but sadly was later pronounced dead. His father posted online: 'It's with great sadness that we have experienced the loss of my beautiful son Alan. 'Thank you to all my family, friends and customers for their kindness and support at this difficult time.' Last week, two teenagers drowned at Ned's Point in Buncrana, Co Donegal. Emmanuel Familola, 16, and Matt Sibanda, 18, sadly lost their lives after they entered the water to retrieve a ball. Both boys were living locally with their families in IPAS centres. Local TD Jack Murray told RTÉ that the community was 'absolutely devastated' following the tragedy. Speaking last week, he said: 'I've just visited the IPAS centre and obviously they were loved because those people in that community are absolutely devastated. "There's no words that you can describe how hurt everybody is - their community, our community. We're as one as we grieve this horrible news." Last November, rescue crews searched for Máire Ní Fhátherta who was missing after swimming in Galway. The 32-year-old went for a swim at Silverstrand near Barna and never returned home. A week after she was reported missing, her body was sadly found a couple hundred metres from her swimming spot. Just hours after she was reported missing, the body of a man was found at Silverstrand. It was discovered to be 74-year-old songwriter Johnny Dunhan, who swam at the beach every day. Known for writing Christy Moore's The Voyage, Johnny was described as a talented musician and a 'family man'. Paying tribute to him, Christy said: 'Family Man, gentle man, artist and, it must be said, an almighty Rock and Roller when he fronted his Band 'Granny's Intention' 60 years ago. Farewell Johnny Boy… see you later.' Their deaths were two of the 78 tragedies that occurred in Irish waters in 2024. Last October, two women died within the space of 24 hours in separate accidents off the coast of north Dublin. One woman died after getting into difficulty swimming in Portmarnock, while another sadly lost her life off the coast at Clontarf.
