A member of our local emergency services has been awarded for bravery.
Firefighter Driver and Mechanic with Carlow County Fire and Rescue Service Paul Gardiner was among those recognised at Dublin’s Mansion House by Minister of State Jerry Buttimer at yesterday’s Water Safety Ireland National Lifesaving Bravery Awards.
The Bagenalstown stationed individual was involved in a rescue incident at 1am on the 20th of February this year – the crew responded to reports of a person in difficulty in the River Barrow. Waters were elevated due to the significant rainfall and flooding with fast-flowing and hazardous conditions.
Paul, who’s also a Rescue 3 Accredited Swiftwater Rescue Technician, entered the river and successfully reached the person in difficulty – operating in darkness and the challenging waters, he managed to bring them to shore, saving their life.
Acting Chief Fire Officer Ben Woodhouse said: “Paul’s actions on the night of 20th February exemplified the very highest standards of courage, professionalism and public service of our firefighters. Faced with dangerous flood conditions and a person whose life was in immediate danger, he used his specialist training and experience to carry out a rescue that ultimately saved a life.”
He added; “This award is richly deserved and is recognition not only of Paul’s bravery, but also of the investment made by Carlow County Fire & Rescue Service since 2022 to strengthen our water rescue capabilities. The decision to provide enhanced Swiftwater rescue training and specialist equipment across all stations has significantly increased our operational readiness and was instrumental in the successful outcome of this incident.”
Mr Woodhouse also noted; “On behalf of Carlow County Fire & Rescue Service, I congratulate Paul on this prestigious national honour and also recognise and acknowledge his colleagues at the Bagenalstown Fire Station, for their professionalism and teamwork that night resulting in a successful outcome.”
Carlow County Council Director of Services Padraig O’Gorman commented; ‘’I wish to acknowledge all personnel involved in the response and extend my congratulations to Driver/Mechanic Paul Gardiner on receiving this national recognition for outstanding lifesaving bravery.’’
