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Wicklow RNLI bring three fishermen to safety

Lifeboats News Release

Three fishermen were brought to safety by Wicklow RNLI on Tuesday evening (21 February), after their vessel developed mechanical problems seven miles south of Wicklow port.

Wicklow RNLI all-weather lifeboat launching to assist fishermen

RNLI/Tommy Dover

Wicklow RNLI all-weather lifeboat launching to assist fishermen

The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Joanna and Henry Williams slipped its moorings at 5.20pm from the South Quay as darkness fell and put to sea under the command of Coxswain Nick Keogh.

The lifeboat crew located the fishing vessel fifteen minutes after launching five miles east of Wicklow Head. Conditions in the area at the time was wind southerly in direction force 4, with moderate sea and good visibility.

A quick assessment was carried out by Coxswain Keogh on the 18-metre vessel, it was found that the steering had locked, and this was preventing the fishermen from getting back to port under their own power. Their only option was to drop anchor and call for assistance.

A tow line was established, and the course was set for Wicklow harbour. The fishing vessel was brought alongside the East pier at 7.20pm and the three fishermen were landed safely ashore.

Speaking about the call out, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Wicklow RNLI, Tommy Dover said: ‘This was a quick response by the crew this evening, which resulted in three fishermen coming ashore safely. It was also the first ‘Shout’ for Ian Thompson as a new navigator, the role is very important at sea, where time is important and accurate headings are required to ensure the lifeboat gets to a casualty as quickly as possible, we were delighted he recently qualified as an all-weather lifeboat navigator after completing a rigorous training programme.’

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.

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