Donegal teen recognised for saving a man's life at National Garda Youth Awards

Paddy Boyle from Tory Island was one of the winners as An Garda Síochána held its annual National Garda Youth Awards, which recognise exceptional young people aged 13-21 who have positively contributed to their community.

Paddy, a 15-year-old, saved the life of a man whose fishing boat capsized. While heading out to feed sheep, Paddy heard shouting from the cliffs.

He phoned his father to launch the Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) after hearing calls for help. Knowing that the Belfast Coastguard had been alerted, Paddy ran toward the sound, which had stopped, and saw the fisherman clinging to the rocks. Risking his own safety, Paddy descended the steep, grassy cliff, pulled the fisherman halfway up and remained with him until two crew members arrived from a boat to assist. This extraordinary act has boosted community morale and reminded everyone that age is no barrier to making a difference.

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This year’s event took place at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise and acknowledged the remarkable contributions of 25 recipients, representing Garda Divisions including Kildare/Carlow, Galway, Wexford, Kerry, Dublin, Cork County, Sligo/Leitrim, Limerick, Meath/Westmeath and Donegal.

Assistant Commissioner for Roads Policing & Community Engagement, Catharina Gunne, opened the ceremony, while Guest of Honour Miriam O’Callaghan introduced each award category.