News Updated on ...............10/05/2012

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In conjunction with the introduction of the new 8th. Edition National Pool Lifeguard Qualification is the optional unit for the provision of AED within the programme. Those TAs wishing to deliver this additional unit must attend an update. The updates will be rolled out nationally and early booking is advised. Open the information document  below.

The AED Update Unit

The RNLI are now recruiting volunteer lifeguards in the UK and Northern Ireland. This page is a 'must visit' not only for those seeking to join with the RNLI BEACH LIFEGUARDS but is packed with essential info on fitness development programme and training, medical and eyesight requirements. More significantly it provides important information on competency tests. Lots of supporting videos on all aspects of Beach Lifeguarding.  This is beach lifeguarding at its best!

Rumour has it that we will see the arrival of the RNLI beach lifeguard service in the Republic of Ireland soon  ........... we look forward to that development.

So if you are serious about being a beach lifeguard  then LIFEGUARDS IRELAND highly recommend the RNLI webpage.

NPLQ  8^th Edition

On the 20^th September 2011 at Leisure Industry Week the Royal Life Saving Society introduced the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification 8^th Edition (NPLQ  8^th Edition). 

Although the RLSS is going to be calling the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification the “8^th Edition” we must say that it is much more than just an update to the existing qualification. The new qualification heralds the biggest change in 20 years of the RLSS Pool Lifeguarding qualifications. Not since the “Pool Bronze” changing to the NPLQ in the 1980s have we seen such a change.

Why Change?

Back in the summer of 2009, after significant anecdotal evidence from Trainers and Approved Training Centres (ATCs) we began to scope out a project to first determine whether the feedback we were receiving warranted a change to the NPLQ or its delivery. We completed research into international qualifications, reviewing their syllabi, training methods, and discussions with leading international experts from within the lifeguarding fraternity, and where available, to look at any research which might aid the process.

Early in 2010 we issued a survey to all of our Trainer-Assessors. The survey asked TAs questions around the delivery of the NPLQ, what works, what doesn’t work, what’s useful, what’s not. What TAs would like to see included and what they would like to see excluded and so on. The results of which were incredibly helpful and insightful. In addition we analysed the feedback received at River House.

Pulling this research together was our starting point for development. At the same time we also pulled together a NPLQ  8^th Edition Programme Board, whose remit at this point was to support us in the review and then to collectively determine the need for change, or not. The programme board needed to be representative of all factions touching the NPLQ. We set out a group remit and methodology and invited a small number of representatives to assist, comprising: NTA, TA, NPLQ holder, ATC, First Aid tutor, a paramedic, a pool manager, a group lifeguard manager, Health & Safety consultant, leisure operations consultant, our chief medical advisor Dr Handley and the technical team from IQL UK.

Once we’d pulled all of these data and discussion together it was clearly evident and unanimously agreed that the NPLQ, at the very least, needed updating and in many areas needed additional elements to address the needs of TAs and ATCs. Therefore a new project scope was developed and as a delicate step by step approach was then adopted to create the NPLQ 8^th Edition

When embarking on a project of this magnitude and importance it is absolutely essential that research and consultation is at the centre of all changes or the decision making processes and is fundamental to the entire project meeting both the needs of the leisure industry and to our training workforce.

What is changing?

The Qualification - Whilst there remain a large number of subject headings from the NPLQ 7^th Edition (first revision), all of the content has been re-written, re-structured and indeed new content added.

Change of Emphasis :

The NPLQ 8^th Edition has ensured that the structure of the new qualification follows a route which the lifeguard may typically take once completed the lifeguard qualification. The content of the NPLQ 8^th Edition will be delivered, as much as possible, so that the learner can see the reality of the lifeguard role on the course thus allowing them to practically apply their knowledge in the working environment. The emphasis of the NPLQ 8^th Edition is focused on early intervention.

Contents of the Lifeguard Manual :

Key Changes.

Throughout you may recognise some text but it may be simplified, language and style changes, more emphasis, detail or an addition.

The content of Unit 1 and Unit 2 are combined together within the manual giving a complete candidate learning resource and enabling an improved and seamless delivery of the content by the trainer.

Examples of content changes are:-

Removal of the following from the syllabus:-

The Delivery of the Qualification 

If there is one aspect of the new qualification which has been at the forefront of our minds and an absolute priority in getting this right it has been our attention to TA resources. Based on our research and the analysis undertaken over the last few years, if there is one common theme that jumps out at us regularly it is that of ‘the consistency of the delivery of the NPLQ’.So when TAs update in 2012 they will be issued a pack of resources to support the delivery of the 8^th Edition. This pack will include, the new candidate manual, a new and much improved master programme, PowerPoint™ presentation in the delivery of the full syllabus of the 8^th Edition, lesson plans and schemes of work. All neatly packaged up in a DVD/CD for TAs to use immediately once they have been updated.  

The Master Programme and Delivery Slides

Currently the Lifeguard manual does not mirror the flow of the Master Programme. To improve the flow of the NPLQ course, the new Master Programme and the TA delivery slides that accompany it now mirror the new Lifeguard manual. All three documents now follow the same sequence to ensure greater learner experience and ease of delivery for the TA.

The PowerPoint™ delivery slides supporting the Master Programme ensure the consistent delivery of the qualification. They include interactive learning materials through the use of video and e-environments and there has been significant improvement to the pictures throughout the delivery slides, Master Programme and the Lifeguard manual.

What Hasn’t Changed?

The Approved Training Centre scheme has not changed and candidates will still be assessed by an external independent assessor to achieve the qualification.

When will it happen?

Timescales for Delivering the NPLQ 8^th Edition  

Following the introduction to NPLQ 8^th Edition at Leisure Industry Week we will be finalising the content, editing, approving and printing the manual in time for January 2012.  Pilot courses were delivered in October 2011 and November 2011. In January 2012 we will be updating 30 NTAs on a two-day course that will include a one day NPLQ 8^th Edition update and NTA briefing and a one day training course that will qualify the NTAs to deliver AED.

From February 2012 we will be running 24 TA updates on the NPLQ 8^th Edition across Ireland and the UK. These will be led by Alex Blackwell (National Pool Programme Manager) and Tara Dillon (IQL UK Executive Director). Venues have been identified at which to deliver these updates. It is expected that the venues will hold a minimum of 100 people and will have a maximum capacity of 200.

These venues will be spread around  both the UK and Ireland and updates run on a rotating basis to allow as much access as possible for the TAs. All information about the 8^th Edition TA updates will be posted on our website. You can attend at any update, not necessarily the one nearest to you. There will be one update per week for 24 weeks.

From February 2012 – throughout the year we will be running a number of one-day AED updates across the country and these will be led by the NTAs that have been trained to deliver this.If TAs want to deliver the AED bolt-on section of the NPLQ 8^th Edition they will be required to attend this one day update seminar even if you are already an RLSS AED trainer.

The venues for the AED training will be spread around the UK and Ireland on a rotating basis to allow as much access as possible for the TAs. Delivery of the NPLQ 8^th Edition will commence from February 2012 once the first batches of TAs have been trained to deliver the syllabus.

TAs that have not been updated will be able to continue delivering the NPLQ 7^th Edition (first revision) until December 2012. Therefore the NPLQ 7^th Edition (first revision) and the NPLQ 8^th Edition will be running in tandem for this period of time.

No further NPLQ 7^th Edition (first revision) courses will be permitted to run from the 31^st December 2012.

If TAs do not attend a NPLQ 8^th Edition update they will not be permitted to deliver the NPLQ 8^th Edition.

NPLQ  8^th Edition Updates in Ireland have been arranged as follows -

                                    *Remember you must book your place online on the RLSS website.

                                    * Dates for the AED Updates will be advised later in the year.

If you have any questions?

If you have any questions about any aspect of the NPLQ 8^th Edition please e-mail mail@iql.org.uk This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Opportunity to qualify as an Emergency First Responder (EFR). Courses leading to this qualification, organised by EMERGENCY CARE take place in Dublin over a five days period.  For those wishing to eventually join the Ambulance Service this is a must.  For those Lifeguards already holding their CFR  this presents a very special opportunity to progress to the NATIONAL STANDARD of EMERGENCY FIRST RESPONDER as set out by PHECC

    ERF Training Syllabus  

CONTACT for INFORMATION -

This internationally renown Hotel continues to set the highest standards of care for both customers and staff alike. This group recently successfully completed a FIRST AID course. This is a total of four groups which also includes those that have completed a CARDIAC FIRST RESPONDER course. HARVEYS POINT COUNTRY HOTEL has it's own defibrillator and has a continuous training programme in place. See the First Aid page for more pics!!

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Mrs. Patricia Wilcox’s introduction to saving lives began in 1966 with her being awarded First Aid and General Nursing Certificates by the South African Red Cross Society. She qualified as a Swimming Teacher in 1975, as a Lifesaving Instructor in 1989 and as a Senior Lifesaving Examiner in 1990. Following her appointment as an examiner she began working in Soweto as a volunteer teacher and examiner.

Pat said “Things were quite volatile in Soweto then and travel was not always easy, no road signs, they had been removed to confuse the security forces. General lighting was provided by high security lights, no regular street lights. One of the lifeguards would meet us outside of the hospital and travel with us to the pool. This first visit was quite an eye opener for me as I had never been to a ‘township’ before. Europeans were still discouraged from going in although permits were no longer needed. I encountered shock and fear for my safety by most people who became aware of what I was doing.”

Over time she became aware that there were full and part-time job opportunities for qualified lifeguards in Johannesburg and she began to focus more and more of her swimming and lifesaving training towards achieving this goal for her ‘youngsters’.  Since 1990 she has trained hundreds of young unemployed swimmers as lifeguards thereby giving them a job and a position of status, as lifeguards are considered valuable members of the South African community.

In addition to her work in Soweto Patricia has served as Lifesaving South Africa’s Director of Education and Training and as a member of the Management Board. In these roles she co-ordinated the new Stillwater Nipper Handbook, new Lifesaving Manual and new Water Safety Booklet. She is also a member of the South African Qualifications Authority in the fields of sport, recreation and fitness.For these and her other voluntary work Patricia Wilcox has been awarded the 2010 Ireland Medal. 

Pat's maternal ancestors came from County Roscommon. Through her husband Gus and their children Pat has strong connections with Cork.  She is pictured above with John Connolly (Lifesaving Foundation) and  Lord Mayor of Cork Michael O'Connell who presented her with the IRELAND MEDAL.

RIVAL-MEDIA ARE LOOKING FOR EIGHT AMBITIOUS 16 YR OLD MALE AND FEMALES FOR A NEW EXCITING TV DOCUMENTARY  for the RTE series MISSION BEACH.

This is an exciting opportunity of a lifetime for YOU!

Would you like to go and take part in the world's largest lifeguard programme ?

This Television documentary series planned to follow 8 ambitious 16 year olds being put through their paces at one of  the world's largest Lifeguarding Programme in Florida during the summer of 2011. Can YOU be one of those lucky 16  year olds? Have you the stamina and the character to make it through. This series really is a fantastic opportunity offering young Irish teens the chance to get fit and gain an excellent qualification whilst having a fantastic summer out in America. Taking part will incur no expenses to the individual, therefore this chance is open to every teen so long as they have the drive and ambition.

For more information please check out the Mission Beach website  www.rte.ie/trte/missionbeachusa

 But Hey ! please remember to show it and discuss it with your parents in advance of making contact.

The National Lifeguard Training Programme Swimming Pool

 The Impact of new Irish Standards on Swimming Pool Operation

The new Irish and European Standards (IS-EN 15288 Parts 1 and 2) are national standards and came into effect in Ireland on 8 October 2008. Not since the introduction of ‘Safety in Swimming Pools’ nearly twenty years ago has there been such a significant publication for those involved in the design, management and operation of swimming pools. The presentation will study the impact of part two of the new Standard on the management and operation of swimming pool facilities, focussing on the role of supervision of swimming pools as depicted in the Standard.

 The New Pool Duty Manager’s Qualification

The development of the new pool qualification for supervisory staff and managers, the National Pool Management Qualification is designed to raise standards in the leisure industry. This qualification arose from research that IQL conducted in the leisure industry.

Approved Training Centre Workshop for Single-Site ATCs

We recognise that single site operators make up a huge percentage of Approved Training Centres and so we have developed a seminar for their specific needs. Expert advice will be given on how to get the most out of membership of the ATC scheme; how to use the NPLQ to commercial advantage; how to manage training and competency at sites, as well as operator’s responsibilities under new legislation.  

The new Ongoing Training and Competency Assessment CD

The Institute of Qualified Lifeguards has introduced a new tool to assist pool managers with organising lifeguard training. The “Ongoing Training & Competency Assessment” computer program includes all the features necessary for pools and leisure centres to manage the delivery of lifeguard training in accordance with “Managing Health and Safety in Swimming Pools” and the new Irish Standards.

 Resuscitation Update, based on the European Resuscitation Council Conference

Whatever changes may be announced, a major objective will be how to train as many people in CPR, ensuring that they have the highest standards and that skills are retained. This session will present the latest research on training in resuscitation from the European Resuscitation Council.

The ISRM National Pool Plant Operator’s Award

Safe operation of swimming pools includes ensuring that the pool water is safe to swim in, as well as being hygienic, odour-free and clear. In addition incorrect operation of pool plant can lead to unnecessary costs in terms of chemicals used and damage to the building.  The ISRM Pool Plant Operator’s Certificate is the premier qualification for pool staff who have responsibility for this important area of technical facility operation.

Rookie Lifeguard comes to the rescue

The Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) is making a real splash with the introduction of ‘Rookie’, a new water skills programme for children aged five years plus. Rookie, supported by the ASA, is designed to teach and reward children water skills that bridge the gap between swimming and life saving. All materials provided by the RLSS are brightly branded to appeal to the tastes and inspirations of young people. The scheme aims to keep children motivated by regularly rewarding them with badges for their achievements. The high demand for children’s swimming lessons, levels one-three, leaves most swimming pools with a packed shallow end, whilst the deep end fails to bring in revenue. Rookie enables leisure centres and health clubs to fully utilise their pool space, enabling managers to more effectively manage their pool programmes as many of the skills covered by Rookie are taught in deep water. Additionally, Rookie is an ideal opportunity for swimming instructors, clubs and operators to increase their income. 

Spinal Injury Management clinic

This optional session will include land-based and pool sessions to update Trainer-Assessors on the current guidance on management of Spinal Injuries in Swimming Pools, including use of the Ferno Aquaboard.

My name is Francesco Zumpano and I am an Italian lifeguard of the FIN (Italian Swimming federation). In the month of September I have attended the NPLQ course at the Waterworld, Bundoran, Co. Donegal. I am proud to be an LIFEGUARD IRELAND and I wish to thank Mr. Britton, Mr. McDevitt and Ms. Harris  (my TAs) for all that they I am sending this photo is so special as it shows  Ms. Harris and shows her wonderful smile.

I am sorry the other two girls of the course ( Paola and Rachel) went away before I made the photos. I think girls worry too much about how their good looking - Irish girls are always beautiful, trust me.

Francesco Zumpano

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We all live in this 'Global Village' and increasingly travel to all corners of the world; in addition we also now meet people of all nationalities right here in our own country.   Well then  .... you may find this little link useful in many ways.

(1). Do you need to know the equivalency of a national award from another country, which is a member of International Life Saving Federation ?

(2). Do you wish to obtain an International Certificate for your national award/qualification from ILSF ?

Click on the ILSF logo or click  here to link to  INTERNATIONAL LIFE SAVING FEDERATION Equivalency Tables.

'Mary from Dungloe' A different side to one of our Lifeguards !	Noel and Dawn International TV Personality Noel Cunningham shares a moment with Dawn	Strutting her stuff !!	Oh! please get me off this Bike NOW!!	Relay Team Members - English Channel Dawn pictured with her team mates before the start. No nerves here!! Congratulations to all !!	Heading for France
I really need a sleep !!	Night Swim Nobody told me I'd have to swim at night and in the dark too!!!	Night Swim It is not so bad really!! Can you still see me ?	Donegal Lifeguard protects our Shores	Lifeguard on Patrol

Irish Lifeguard Dawn Croke certainly believes in enjoying  life to the fullest.  Presently at college studying to be a PE Teacher, she keeps her fitness in top shape by competing in triathlons. This culminated in her participation as a team member of a successful swim of the English Channel.  But it is not all hard training... well not all of the time!!  She was invited to represent her local town in the internationally famous  ' Mary from Dungloe' festival.  Beauty as well as brains and a role model for us all!  Lifeguards Ireland congratulate Dawn and wish her well for the future.

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Dawn in her role as a Lifeguard asked that we relate the following message -

" Everyone should set goals in life and enjoy all the exciting challenges that life offers, but please remember to do it safely and most especially respect the sea and understand it.  I really encourage everyone to join a lifesaving class or train to be a Lifeguard, not only for your own safety but that of your family and friends."

Pictured here are the recipients of THE IRELAND MEDAL over recent years.  We recognise and salute them and their work in the prevention of drowning and the promotion of lifesaving/lifeguarding.  Our congratulations go to John Connolly, the hard working CEO of THE IRISH LIFE SAVING FOUNDATION who continue unstintingly in their promotion and teaching of life saving skills not only in Ireland but throughout the world. ILSF are the prime developers in this field and you will find further information about them and their work further down on this page.

As a registered charity in Ireland they welcome all the support you may give them, financially or indeed morally !!

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At the annual Presentation of Honours  the following members of RLSS IRELAND were honoured in recognition of their service and contribution to lifesaving and beach and pool lifeguarding. Pictured from left to right are - Eoin Halliday, Jack Britton, John McKenna, Ciara Mulhair, Eddie Duffy (President RLSS IRELAND), David Browne and Ronan Larkin.

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Pictured here is a successful group of new Lifeguards that completed their National Pool Lifeguard Qualification in the super facilities in the AURA LEISURE SPORTS COMPLEX in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.  The group were trained by TA Niamh Brady, looking very serious sitting second from left !!

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The Irish Lifesaving Foundation has expressed grave concerns with regard to the ever increasing number of deaths by drowning of people on holidays abroad, especially that of young men.  John Connolly CEO of ILF recently launched a national radio and media campaign to address this important issue. He also stressed that many of the factors and risks equally apply here at home as we continue to enjoy the magnificent summer weather.  We should understand that water can be great fun, afford great exercise and enjoyment but if not respected it can also be very dangerous.  Please check out our 'Water Safety Code' page and make sure to have your own family plan of action, whenever you go to the beach.

Lifeguards Ireland are pleased to support the work of Irish Lifesaving Foundation and ask that you download   Holiday Safety Leaflet (Size 252 kbs. and read it carefully. The advice is aimed at everyone. There is crucial advice for parents of young children and babies, but most especially for young people heading off on holidays with their peer group.  If you should like to obtain a paper copy of 'Water Safety on Holiday'  please contact us.

Click on the Leaflet to Read

" In Sea or Pools - know the Rules

                          Take Care - Be Aware "

A wonderful opportunity to become an Outdoor Instructor took place in the Donegal Adventure Centre in Bundoran, Co. Donegal.  It offered the leading industry qualifications required by the Outdoor Leisure Industry. This course concentrated mainly on training for the ISA level 1 surf coach award, the RLSS National Beach Lifeguard Qualification award, and  candidates also trained in child protection, adventure (land-based) activities, leadership skills, team training and development and beach first aid skills. These are the practical awards and qualifications of the governing bodies in the various disciplines.  Details on our 'Courses' page.

Darragh Quinn who was selected to represented Ireland at the Celtic Intervarsities Championships successfully completed his National Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NBLQ) in Gartan OEC.  Well done Darragh!!

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The Irish Lifesaving Foundation is a charity dedicated to reducing the number of drowning deaths, worldwide.

Please support the work of this small charitable body  in its unstinting commitment and hard work throughout the world. The Foundation is registered as a charity in Dublin, Ireland (CRY 15102) and it is a not for profit company (CHO 368309) limited by guarantee. View the Irish Lifesaving Foundation website.

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Beach TAs renew their NBLQ with the addition on the new 'specialist units'  which included -

 These BEACH TAs brought their vast experience and other relevant qualifications  to this course. This list is impressive and clearly indicates the standards that one can expect from them on their Beach Lifeguard courses.

Their impressive qualifications included the following  -

All these Trainer Assessors are now in a position to deliver the specialist units on their courses but we recommend that you check in advance with the individual TA that he or she is including a particular specialist unit or their course.  You may also check on our 'Courses' page for additional information.

Transporting your casualty in the wonderful city of Venice would require a whole new set of skills not least boat handling. All coxswains take note.

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A very successful  NBLQ course was recently held in Enniscrone Co. Sligo. Congratulations to all the candidates and our sincere appreciation to the involved in this excellent development. And remember to have a look at the pic !!

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LIST OF APPROVED SURF SCHOOLS

The ISA publish a LISTING of the names and details of its APPROVED SURF SCHOOLS. The full details and information can be had by visiting the ISA website. 

LIFEGUARDS IRELAND strongly recommend and advise everyone interested or involved in surfing to use only ISA APPROVED SURF SCHOOLS. You will find further details and information by visiting the link on our 'Friends Links' page to the ISA.  If you are a beginner, or seeking lessons for yourself or for your children then these ISA APPROVED SURF SCHOOLS are especially important.

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 A young lone surfer was plucked from the surf at Tullan, Bundoran on Friday evening 9/03/07 after getting into serious difficulties. All the EMS were involved and we understand that he was taken to Sligo General Hospital for treatment. However, thanks to the prompt actions of the Emergency Rescue Services no serious injuries were incurred. LIFEGUARDS IRELAND again stress the need for all surfers to join and become ISA members  and ask all surfers to adhere to the safety rules of the IRISH SURFING ASSOCIATION as detailed and listed above.

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How would you like to do your NBLQ in the warm waters of the Canary Islands? Our good friend and colleague John Sager continues to operate these popular courses.  Check out the details of all courses on their website Lifeguard and Rescue International .

Now don't say we we did not tell you !

The heavy weight (230gm) Polo Shirt is now available  at a special clearance price of €19.99 including P&P. Offer only applies while stocks last.  You may purchase a shirt by sending a cheque or postal order today, with your name and postal address.

This attractive embroidered design displays the Irish National Flag and also our motto ' A Duty to Care'

         Click on the Thumbnail Pictures for full views of the Polo Shirt and logo.

Ireland's prettiest Lifeguard !!

Click here for more information on how to get your POLO SHIRT and Car Sticker.

Winners of 23 GOLD, 3 SILVER and 4 BRONZE MEDALS  at  LIFESAVING CHAMPIONSHIPS in POND'S FORGE SHEFFIELD

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Pictured above left, is the Irish Team and on the right is David Browne, winner of the Men's Master Resuscitation Competition

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' Dun na nGall' Donegal Bay Cruise Ship	Proud Moment !! Capt. Billy with his fellow Directors and their Trainer Jack Britton.	View of the stern - Time to Board Welcome to beautiful Donegal and safe sailing to all!!	Jovial mood !! Capt. Billy with First Mate Alrick and Chairman Sean.

Congratulations to Captain Billy Bustard and his fellow directors of the Donegal Bay cruise ship 'Dun na nGall' pictured receiving their Life Support certificates.  Committed to the safety of their crew and passengers they all recently completed a Life Support and First Aid course.

Pool Lifeguard Catherine Coleman, was recently presented with a 'Certificate of Commendation' in recognition of her successful brave rescue from the sea of a person in difficulty in the cold waters of December.

The presentation of the bravery certificate was made in ACTON'S HOTEL in KINSALE by the President of lifesavers IRELAND (RLSS) Margaret Caulfield.  In addition, LIFEGUARDS IRELAND were pleased to present Catherine with a sport's Casio watch in recognition of her bravery.

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Catherine Coleman Catherine, pictured with President Lifesavers Ireland Margaret Caulfield receiving her bravery certificate.	Changing Places !! President Margaret Caulfield swaps her chain of office with channel swimmer Imelda Lynch, while Kinsale Beach Lifeguard Susan Quinlan supervises their antics!	ACTON'S HOTEL - enjoying Champagne!! Pictured left to right: Heather Kehoe (Acton's Leisure Club) Catherine Coleman, President Margaret Caulfield, Julie Cochrane (Manager Acton's Leisure Club) Imelda Lynch.

ACTON'S HOTEL very kindly sponsored a champagne reception on the occasion.

  If you demand only the highest standards and require the leading edge international technology in your pool plant then this technical qualification is the definitive standard. The ISRM deliver their qualifications  throughout the world.

Courses now available in IRELAND

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For full information on this new and exciting development contact -

IQL IRELAND
Po. Box 9702, Dublin 7, Ireland
Tel: + 353 (0)86 2311730
email : iql@ireland.com

Info on Blue Flag Beaches is available to download on our 'Documents Download' page.

 BLUE FLAG Beaches and Marinas in Ireland and Northern Ireland  for are available on our ' Irish Blue Flag' page.

Go to our 'Photo Gallery' and view the pics from Sligo Institute of Technology.

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Imelda Lynch, a member of lifesavers IRELAND (RLSS) and  a qualified Beach and Pool Lifeguard Trainer/Assessor successfully completed her 21 miles swim of the English Channel from Abbot's Cliff in Dover to Cape Gris Nez to Calais.She was accompanied on the escort vessel by her son John, fellow Lifeguard Trainer Assessor Susan Quinlan, friends Marie and Grainne and stalwart advisor and  Master Swimmer Martin Cullen. When we spoke with Imelda she also asked us to pay tribute and recognition to her good friend and mentor Eilish Burns in Cork. With an early start at 1.52 am on Friday 9th. she made landfall on Saturday 10th. in the afternoon at 4.26pm. The escort vessel was the "Ocean Breeze" and the Official Observer on board was Brian Harbottle.  The conditions were described as ideal, calm with a little early hazy mist.

On the crossing only one large jellyfish was spotted but a bigger hazard was the many ocean tankers. In fact one was so large that it was mistaken as Calais by one individual!!  Imelda was within one mile off the French coast after 11 and a half  hours but then entered slack water. The frustration  of that last mile took three hours against tidal currents. Undeterred she completed her swim and went ashore in France almost as fresh as she had left Dover. On her return to Dover it was down to the " White Horse Pub " where the tradition is for every successful Channel Swimmer to sign the wall. Later she will receive a vellum parchment certificate of her successful channel swim. Imelda is quite modest about her magnificent  achievement. We in LIFEGUARDS IRELAND  and lifesavers IRELAND (RLSS) are so proud of her and extend to her our heartiest congratulations. Well done Imelda !!!

The Lord Mayor of Cork Deirdre Clune, hosted a Civic Reception to honour Imelda Lynch and her magnificent achievement in swimming the English Channel. Pictured here, (left to right) are the President 'Lifesavers Ireland' Margaret Caulfield, the Honourable Lord Mayor of Cork Deirdre Clune and Imelda Lynch.

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Nicole Morgan who was crowned overall Women's Champion at end of the British Professional Surfing Association (BPSA) tour at Newquay, Cornwall. Nicole is one of Ireland's best reef surfers and is also a qualified Lifeguard holding her NBLQ having  trained  with LIFEGUARDS IRELAND at the DAC.

We asked Nicole if she had any safety advice that she might like to give to the many newcomers taking up the sport of surfing. She readily agreed and had this advice to offer -

" Always be safe and stay within your ability levels.  There's no rush to surf at the higher level spots, take your time and enjoy each step along the way! "

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Senior Staff Members of the Irish Surfing Association (ISA) and Directors of registered and approved Surf Schools show that they are prepared to lead the way and set out the standards of safety.  This bunch of 'veterans' recently completed their National Beach Lifeguard Qualification under the harshest of weather conditions as can be judged from the photos.

The course which was run over a number of months, was described by course trainer Jack Britton, as -

" One of the most enjoyable I have ever done. These guys showed a commitment and interest that was unparalleled. I learned more from them than they ever learned from me".

In addition, this is the first group in Ireland to achieve the 'SURF LIFEGUARD' endorsement to their NBLQ. See more on this article on our 'BLOG'  with contact details of their Surf Schools and websites.

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Lifesavers from all over Ireland, North and South, travelled to the famous Pond's Forge Pool in Sheffield to take on the best Lifesavers in England, Scotland and Wales.  These Irish Lifesavers went on to win at staggering 28 Medals including 8 Gold, 9 Silver and 11 Bronze. Congratulations to all team members and coaches.

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The 3rd. Year Recreation and Leisure Students of Sligo Institute of Technology had a real fun day on St. Valentine's Day during their 'Kiss for Life' event and raised lots of money in to the bargain!!  They plan to use their funds to help in the purchase of a Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Well done Students!! 

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The Mayor of Sligo, Clr. Rosaleen O'Grady accorded a Civic Reception in the Town Hall Sligo to Prof. Major General John Pearn of the Australian Defence Forces, in recognition of his humanitarian work throughout the world not least in the field of lifesaving.  Professor Pearn, who has family roots to Sligo, is a member of the Royal Life Saving Society in his native Australia. His most recent  work included a stint in grief stricken post-tsunami Sumatra.

Professor Pearn was the 2005 recipient of the prestigious IRELAND MEDAL  from the Irish Lifesaving Foundation. This was awarded in recognition of his long outstanding contribution to lifesaving and resuscitation. Pictured above are from left to right - Jack Britton, Director Lifeguards Ireland,  Robert Cadman, Sligo Swim & Lifesaving School Sligo, her Honour the Mayor of Sligo Clr. Rosaleen O'Grady, Professor Major General John Pearn.

The Mayor also honoured two local teenagers, Conor McShane and Amanda Donohoe, both members of Sligo Swim and Lifesaving School at  the function. They were awarded their Lifesavers ' Medal of Distinction'  and are pictured here with the Mayor and Prof. Pearn.

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 ROSALEEN is a Beach Lifeguard with stamina and is a girl to be admired!! Every day during the summer months, sunshine or rain, she climbed the famous holy mountain  to open the Church on the summit of Croagh Patrick.  Her job was that of information guide for the summer months.  Starting her ascent around 10.00am of the 764m. (2510ft.) mountain reaching the top in just over a hour.  During the season she met with all kinds of people from all over the world. Having completed her day on 'the Reek' she started her descent around  4.00pm. By my calculations in six weeks she climbed the equivalent of Mount Everest twice !!

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She tells us that she "thoroughly enjoyed it and would do it again, but next summer she hopes to be lifeguarding the beaches beneath Croagh Patrick!"  ROSALEEN completed her NBLQ recently and with such commitment we have no doubt that she will make an excellent Lifeguard.

6th. year college student Tim Fayne recently carried out a daring and successful rescue of a school colleague that got into serious difficulties in a accident in the water. Tim, who is a holder of the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification put into place all the knowledge and skills that he previous learned on his lifesaving and lifeguard courses. On leaving college he plans to study Marine Biology in University. He is pictured here with the President of lifesavers IRELAND (RLSS) Margaret Caulfield, deservedly receiving a Certificate of Commendation. Tim is also featured in our 'Photo Gallery' with his trainers.

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Trained in lifesavers  (RLSS) Emergency Response (Open Water)

This new and exciting development in beach administration in the North-West demonstrated the way forward for a structured plan for the environmental management, protection of the ecology and the safety of all the users on one of the  most prestigious beaches in Ireland.

You can download and read the full article by going now to our  Documents Download page.

An unhappy lifesavers IRELAND (RLSS) Lifeguard cleans up after the Bank Holiday Weekend. Please take all your rubbish home and recycle it. Not only is it unsightly but it causes environmental pollution.  Protect our beautiful beaches.

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 Irish Lifesavers went on to win the Overall Championship at Lifesaving Championships in Pond's Forge, Sheffield. Congratulations to all team members and coaches but in particular to Ciara Mulhair who won the overall individual.  There are a few more photos to be viewed on the 'Photo Gallery' page.

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AN TAOISEACH,  BERTIE AHEARN presents the first IRELAND MEDAL for lifesaving to GARDA COMMISSIONER NOEL CONROY, February 2004 at Government Buildings, in Dublin. The Commissioner accepted the Gold Medal on behalf of the hundreds of Gardaí who have bravely rescued persons from drowning since the foundation of the force in 1922. Speaking prior to the medal presentation, RLSS IRELAND President Declan Harte paid tribute to the courage and teamwork shown by Gardaí in rescue situations. Between 10 and 20 Gardai are involved in swimming rescues annually, often in extremely difficult situations.

In 2003 a group of 45 volunteers completed their lifesaving training in the National Aquatics Centre, the venue for the 2003 World Summer Games Aquatics event. All of these volunteers already held a recognised certificate that enables them to act as a pool lifeguard. But this was a serious bunch of lifeguards. In addition to awards and qualifications already held  they all successfully completed  the  National Rescue Award for Supervisors of Swimmers with Disabilities course. This specialist training allowed them, as volunteer lifeguards, to ensure the water safety of all the athletes who  competed in the Aquatics event during the Special Olympics World Summer Games. Well done everyone!

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