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Wicklow RNLI bring three fishermen to safety

Lifeboats News Release

Wicklow RNLI brought three fishermen to safety on Saturday afternoon (29 April), after their vessel developed mechanical problems three miles east of Greystones Harbour.

Coast Guard

File photo of Wicklow Lifeboat

The all-weather lifeboat, Joanna & Henry Williams slipped its mooring at 3.43pm to reports of an angling boat with engine failure. The lifeboat was under the command of Coxswain Nick Keogh.

The volunteer lifeboat crew located the casualty vessel 40 minutes after launching in a position four miles east southeast of Greystones Harbour. Conditions on scene were wind from a south easterly direction force 3-4, with moderate seas and good visibility.

After an assessment of the situation was carried out by Coxswain Keogh it was decided a tow was the best option given the casualty vessel's engine failure.

Speaking after the call out, Wicklow RNLI Coxswain Nick Keogh said: 'As Greystones Harbour was the nearest safe harbour, I decided this was the best place to bring the casualty'.

The tow was established, and a course set for Greystones Harbour with the casualty vessel being secured alongside at 4.53pm. Greystones Coast Guard unit were also there to help secure the vessel alongside.

At 4.56pm, the all-weather lifeboat left Greystones, arrived back in Wicklow Harbour at 5.30pm where the boat was made ready for the next call out.

Speaking after the call out, Connie O'Gara, Wicklow RNLI Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer said: 'This was another quick response by the volunteer crew of Wicklow RNLI. Their quick response and training helped bring three people safely ashore. We would also remind people to ensure they have a suitable means of communication to be able to call for help should the need arise. We would also like to remind people that the month of May is RNLI’s annual Mayday appeal and we would encourage you to check out the RNLI website to see how you can help.'

Ends

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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