New waters charted as Roberta takes helm

EVEN though Roberta O’Brien grew up almost 100 kilometres from the nearest coastline, it hasn’t stopped the Tipperary native from making history with the Irish Naval Service.

Living in the Glen of Aherlow, at the age of 17 she embarked on a seafaring career which saw her yesterday become the first female commander of an Irish navy ship.

“I saw an opportunity when women were first allowed into the navy,” said Roberta. The year was 1995. She had just completed her Leaving Certificate and joined up with another woman.