An inspirational Donegal teenager is set to follow his dream of working on boats, after completing his marine safety qualifications.
16-year-old Seán Boyle from Arranmore Island has Down Syndrome, and recently completed his Bord Iascaigh Mhara Basic Training Course, meaning that he is now able to work on a boat or ferry.
The training to be certified with a BIM safety card includes a number of tasks, including jumping into a pool with safety gear, going on a life raft on his own and doing elementary first aid.
Seán got his love of the sea from his family, with his father, John being a fisherman, and two of his brothers having also completed their training to work on the seas.
As a Transition Year student, Seán now plans to do his TY work experience on the local Arranmore ferry.
Seán’s mother, Elaine, said the family couldn’t be prouder of Seán – who is the youngest of five children.
“Seán is a brilliant character and people person and doesn’t let much get in his way! Our family is steeped in fishing tradition and as soon as he could walk, Seán would put on his wellies and follow his Dad when he was going out in the boat.”
Seán learned to swim when he was younger, getting the ferry every Saturday with his mother across to the mainland to take lessons in Letterkenny pool. It took him longer than usual to learn to swim. “It was a real commitment, but he was determined,” said Elaine.
“He wants to work on our local ferry, and this is now something achievable because he has passed his safety training which has provided him with a life skill which will help him in the long term to get a job and be more independent,” she said.
A delighted Seán said: “If my brothers can do it why shouldn’t I! I am really looking forward to working on a boat some day.”
Seán’s teacher, Florence Calais, helped him apply for the BIM training, and the plan is he will do his TY work placement in the coming weeks on one of the island ferries.
“Seán is a lovely lad and a pure joy to teach. When he completed the training, it was announced on the intercom at school, and all the students lined up in the corridor to cheer Seán on when he arrived back.”
“Seán is very outgoing, and he does project work in class which suits him better. He loves to learn having fun. I believe people can often learn more outside of the curriculum and school by seeing how the world works and meeting people.” she said.
Making Waves!
Donegal teenager Seán Boyle from Árainn Mhór has taken a step closer to following his dream to pursue a career at sea by passing his Bord Iaschaigh Mhara (BIM) Basic Safety Training course which will allow him to work on a boat or Ferry. 16-year-old Séan, a Transition Year student at Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada School on Árainn Mhór, has Down Syndrome and did not let his disability get in his way. Pictured with Séan at Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada School as he proudly shows off his qualifications are his teacher teacher, Florence Calais and Garvan Meehan, Principal of the National Fisheries College of Ireland in Greencastle, Co. Donegal. Photo Brian Farrell
Garvan Meehan, Principal of the BIM National Fisheries College of Ireland in Greencastle, said: “It was a joy to have Seán on the course in Greencastle. He completed all the tasks with no problems and was so excited to have his training card which is an important step forward towards achieving his goal to work at sea.”
“Seán is a great example that you can achieve your dreams if you are determined and committed and supported in doing so.”
Barry Sheridan, CEO of Down Syndrome Ireland, said: “We’re all incredibly proud of Seán and his achievement. It’s such an impressive qualification, and we know that Sean is going to be an asset to any vessel he serves on.”
“We at Down Syndrome Ireland, and all our branches and members, are constantly trying to forge new opportunities for people with Down syndrome, and Sean is a real trailblazer. I know Sean’s Bord Iascaigh Mhara card will be the passport to a brilliant future”.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalougue also congratulated Seán on his “incredible achievement.”
“An inclusive culture and spirit of opportunity, where everyone has the chance to contribute and achieve their dreams, is vital. Diversity and inclusion adds to the richness of our society and I am delighted for Seán.”
