Clifden RNLI in search and rescue operation for fisherman off Cruagh Island
Volunteers from Clifden RNLI were involved in the search and rescue operation for a fisherman off Cruagh Island yesterday evening (23 May).
The alarm was raised by another fisherman shortly before 5pm.
Both Clifden RNLI’s Atlantic 85 inshore and the Mersey class all-weather lifeboats launched and made their way to the scene off Cruagh Island, approximately seven miles from the station.
The Rescue 115 helicopter from Shannon was also tasked. Once on scene, a search commenced and the helicopter crew spotted the casualty in the water and guided Clifden RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat to him.
The man was then transferred into the lifeboat where the lifeboat crew began to administer casualty care. He was subsequently brought to Clifden lifeboat station where he was transferred into the care of ambulance paramedics and then airlifted by helicopter to hospital.
Speaking this morning following the death of the fisherman, John Brittain, Clifden RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: ‘All at Clifden RNLI would like to extend their sincere sympathies with the family of this man. Our thoughts are very much with them at this time.’
Ends
RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Nuala McAloon RNLI Regional Media Officer Ireland on 00353876483547 or email Nuala_McAloon@rnli.org.uk or Niamh Stephenson RNLI Regional Media Manager Ireland on 00353871254124 or Niamh_Stephenson@rnli.org.uk
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 over 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and, in a normal year, 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 142,700 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter 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.