This article first appeared on Galway Bay FM

The Aran Islands RNLI has appointed its first ever female Lifeboat Operations Manager.

Avril Ní Shearcaigh is the manager of the energy co-op on Inis Mór and the mother of four young children.

As Lifeboat Operations Manager, she’ll ensure that lifeboats are maintained and in a constant state of readiness for launch.

Avril spoke to David Nevin – and started by explaining how she first got involved with the RNLI.