Two Kildare individuals to be honoured by Water Safety Ireland

Two Kildare individuals are to be formally honoured at Water Safety Ireland's National Annual Awards Ceremony, taking place at the O'Reilly Hall, UCD, Dublin on Tuesday October 21 2025.

53 lives were saved from drowning thanks to the swift and selfless actions of rescuers who will be recognised at the awards ceremony.

Mr Jerry Buttimer TD, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will present Seiko Just in Time Awards, Rescue Appreciation Awards and Bravery Awards to 73 individuals whose bravery prevented water tragedies across Ireland and abroad.

The event will also celebrate the enduring dedication of over 70 Water Safety Ireland volunteers, who will receive Long-Service Awards for teaching swimming, water rescue, and survival skills – representing a combined 1,755 years of voluntary service.

READ NEXT: Leixlip Gardai apprehend two motorists last weekend in North Kildare

Hannah Wilson from Kildare is a recipient of the SEIKO Just In Time & Rescue Appreciation Award.

On the July 11 2023, at the Paraiso Hotel in Albufeira, Portugal, Hannah noticed a crowd gathered at the deep end of the pool, pointing towards a man in distress. After the man was removed from the water, Hannah immediately left the pool and began performing CPR. She continued administering CPR for approximately 40 minutes until a paramedic arrived and took over.

Meanwhile, receiving a Long Service Award is Aidan Malone from Kildare, who is being awarded for a 15 Year Service Medal of Honour.

Minister Buttimer said of the event: “It is a privilege to honour these extraordinary individuals who acted selflessly and courageously in moments of crisis. Their actions are a powerful reminder of the importance of water safety awareness, and of the life-saving impact of the work carried out by Water Safety Ireland and its dedicated volunteers across the country.”

Among the recipients of the Seiko Just in Time Awards, Rescue Appreciation Awards and Bravery Awards are teenagers, off-duty paramedics, swimmers, surfers, and bystanders who responded swiftly and bravely in challenging and often dangerous conditions, both at home and abroad.

Their actions include dramatic water rescues, lifesaving CPR efforts, coordinated group interventions during rip current incidents, and the use of quick thinking and lifesaving skills in high-stress situations.
“These awards shine a light on real-life heroes – ordinary people who made extraordinary decisions in moments of crisis,” said WSI CEO Joanne Walsh. 

“Their actions saved lives and serve as an inspiration to us all. We urge everyone to reflect on these rescues and take time to respect the risks and enjoy the water safely. Start a water safety conversation with your family, friends and colleagues and with the right knowledge, skills and attitudes everyone can avoid the hazards and take responsibility for their own safety.”