Lough Derg RNLI launch to assist two people on a 21ft motor boat

The volunteer crew with helm Eleanor Hooker, Joe O’Donoghue, Doireann Kennedy and Kjell Jimmy Gundergjerde launched in force 2 north northwest winds, with good visibility.

The lifeboat took depth soundings as they approached the vessel, which was high on a shoal. A crew member transferred to the motor boat and found that the people on board were unharmed and well and were wearing their lifejackets.

A RNLI volunteer checked the vessel and when he established that the hull was intact, he set up for a tow, The lifeboat took the vessel off the rocks and into safe water, where he ensured that the drives, steering and rudder were in good working order. The lifeboat stayed with the vessel until they were past the middle ground, then they continued their journey without further need for navigational assistance.

Helm Eleanor Hooker advises boat users ‘to plan your passage and pay close attention to the navigational marks at the enterance to harbours and rivers on the lake.’

The lifeboat returned to the station and was ready for service again at 7:15pm

Ends

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For more information please telephone Elizabeth Cavanagh, Lough Derg RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 0879966855 or [email protected] or Nuala McAloon, Regional Media Officer on 0876483547 or [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, Regional Media Manager on 0871254124 or [email protected]

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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 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 146,000 lives.

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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.