Tramore RNLI rescue two people and dog after 18ft boat breaks down

The volunteer crew launched their inshore lifeboat at 4.50pm following a request from the Irish Coast Guard’s Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC).

At the time, sea fog had reduced visibility across the bay, while a south westerly Force 3 wind was gusting to Force 5. Although the boat’s anchor was deployed, it could not safely hold the vessel clear of Tramore beach. Without engine power, the boat remained at risk of dragging anchor and washing ashore, potentially endangering other water users.

The lifeboat helmed by Fergal McGrath and with crew members Will Palmer and Nóirín Phelan onboard, launched immediately.

Once on scene, the lifeboat crew found the two onboard to be safe, well and wearing lifejackets.

However following a risk assessment, and with the vessel unable to make any safe onward progress and with it presenting a hazard to other users, a decision was made that the safest course of action was to tow the boat safely to Tramore Pier.

Speaking following the call out, Tramore RNLI Helm Fergal McGrath said: 'We would like to commend the two onboard for wearing lifejackets and for calling for help when they needed it.

'We would encourage anyone heading out on the water to do the same and to carry a reliable means of calling for assistance. If you get into difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.'

Ends

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Noirin Phelan, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Tramore RNLI, [email protected]

Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Ireland, 087 648 3547, [email protected]

Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Ireland, 087 125 4124, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.