The RNLI saved an average of 19 people a week from Ireland's waters last year.
A total of 990 people were rescued last year by lifeboats. Bangor, Co Down, was the busiest station on the island with 53 launches and 70 people rescued.
Within the Republic, the RNLI station in the yachting mecca of Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin, launched 47 times and rescued 43 people. Two inland RNLI stations at Lough Derg in Tipperary and Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, recorded 57 launches and rescued 102 people. The RNLI, which relies on voluntary contributions and legacies, has 55 lifeboats at its 43 stations on this coastline.
The RNLI is "in ongoing dialogue" with the Government in relation to an attempt to impose passenger boat licensing regulations on rescue craft that already have to comply with the organisation's own stringent standards. The move does not affect emergencies, fortunately, as survivors are not regarded as passengers.
However, RNLI Divisional Inspector for Ireland , Colin Williams, said: "With the continued improvements in technology and a strong emphasis on training of our volunteers, lifeboats are reaching casualties faster."