Lough Ree RNLI rescues eight people from stricken cruisers on the lake
Lough Ree RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew responded to two separate call outs, coming to the assistance of eight people on two different cruisers on Lough Ree today (Saturday 22 May).
In the first incident, a boat had become grounded on a rock shelf, west of Inchmore Island on Lough Ree. The Lough Ree RNLI volunteer lifeboat was launched and reached the scene just before midday. The 17ft cruiser was found grounded and on inspection the engine of the boat was in need of repair.
In bright and breezy conditions the Lough Ree RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew took the boat under tow and brought it safely to a berth at Coosan Point marina.
Just before 6pm the Lough Ree RNLI volunteer lifeboat ‘Tara Scougall’ was back in the water with another volunteer crew coming to the assistance of a 34ft cruiser which had run aground at Kid Island on Lough Ree. Under RNLI volunteer helm Emmet Devereux the craft was refloated and continued on its way.
Tom Bradbury, one of the helms at Lough Ree RNLI said: ‘Following unusual weather patterns, obstacles on the lake can be hidden in rising waters. Boating enthusiasts are reminded of the importance of navigating within the marker buoys on the lake.’
As the new season on the lake begins in earnest Lough Ree RNLI Operations Manager, Jude Kilmartin said: ‘the charity looks forward to working closely with locals and visitors to our inland waterways.'
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.