Howth RNLI coxswain retires

AFTER 39 years of tireless dedication to Howth RNLI, 27 years as lifeboat coxswain, Robert Duffy has retired.

Thanks to his bravery and determination, Robert helped to save hundreds of lives at sea during his time as a volunteer crewmember.

A native of Howth, when he was a child Robert used to scamper to the top of the pier with his friends to watch as the lifeboat was launched and sped out of Howth harbour to rescue mariners in distress.

When he was old enough he joined his brothers George, Jim and Michael on the lifeboat crew. His skills and expertise as a seafarer were invaluable in his role as coxswain; he was looked up to and respected by all the crew.

Rupert Jeffares, lifeboat operations manager with Howth RNLI, said Robert was an extremely skilled coxswain and gave remarkable service to Howth Lifeboat for almost 40 years.

“He deserves a long and healthy retirement from the lifeboat service,” said Mr Jeffares.

Russell Rafter, chairman Howth RNLI, said:

“On behalf of everyone at Howth RNLI, I’d like to acknowledge the selfless dedication and personal sacrifices made by Robert Duffy during his time as a crewmember with the lifeboat in Howth.

“Many people owe their lives to Robert. He will be sorely missed and we wish him and his wife Margaret all the best for the future.

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Fred Connolly, a crewmember of long standing, will be taking over as Howth RNLI’s new coxswain.