She also joined a shore patrol in Clontarf where they dropped in to meet and talk to a very brave couple. While out walking with their children Rowan and Tara saw a man face down in the water off Clontarf seafront. Tara contacted the Coast Guard immediately on 999, meanwhile her husband who is a very strong swimmer grabbed a ringbuoy and went in the water after the man. He successfully got the man to shore where Gardai and Coast Guard members had just arrived. The gentleman concerned was taken to hospital alive and breathing and no doubt owes his life to the actions Rowan took.
Entering the water is not something we recommend as it can easily lead to more casualties but Rowan is a very strong swimmer and was comfortable with the rescue and his bravery has to be commended.
The rescue brought home two important messages, one is the quick action of the couple to contact the Coast Guard on 999/112, secondly the importance of Ringbuoys on seafronts not being interfered with. They are there to help save lives and on that day that is what they did. Radio piece is on RTE Radio One at 3pm on Monday 29th July.