Aberystwyth University in Wales has awarded Irish Coast Guard hero Caitríona Lucas with a posthumous BSc degree in Information and Library Studies.
Mother-of-two Caitríona, 41, was from Ballyvaughan had begun her BSc degree in Information and Library Studies in June 2015. She studied by distance learning whilst also bringing up a family, working as a librarian for Clare County Council, and volunteering for the Search and Rescue Dog Association.
She also completed over 700 hours every year as a volunteer with the Doolin unit of the Irish Coast Guard.
Caitríona died while on active during a search for a missing man in Kilkee last September. The boat on which Caitríona had been operating capsized suddenly tossing the three-person crew into sea. Caitríona tragically died in the incident.
Professor Judy Broady-Preston, Director of the Institute of Professional Development, said: “Caitríona Rós Lucas died on 12 September 2016 whilst on active service as a volunteer with the Irish coastguard during a search for a missing man. Caitriona joined the service in 2006 and served with her husband Bernard who joins us today, together with her son Ben.
“An excellent and popular student, Caitriona was due to complete her degree in 2017. Aber students and staff remember her lively personality, energy, enthusiasm and professional commitment. Today, we celebrate her life and achievements,” Professor Broady-Preston added.
Earlier this year, Caitríona was named Clare Person of the Year at the Clare Association’s annual event which held in Clare especially.