Clifden RNLI go to the aid of fisherman with engine trouble
The volunteer lifeboat crew launched at noon yesterday (Monday 24 March) to reports of a broken-down fishing vessel in Connemara waters.
Clifden's all weather Shannon class lifeboat was launched under the command of Coxswain James Mullen, with Joe Acton, Dan Whelan, Tom Guy and Shane Conneely as crew. The crew immediately made their way to the location, near Aughris Point. They were assisted from the shore by Ian Shanahan, Michael Barrett, Fergal Conneely and Dara Wallace.
The casualty vessel was located and the fisherman onboard confirmed the gearbox was broken. To prevent a navigational hazard the lifeboat crew established a tow line and towed the fishing boat back to Aughris Pier.
Clifden RNLI Coxswain, James Mullen said, 'With the weather improving we expect to see an increase in activity around our coastal waters. Our advice for anyone going to sea is to plan your journey in advance, have the relevant charts required, life-jackets for all on board and a means of calling for assistance if you find yourself in trouble.
'I want to commend the fisherman for raising the alarm when he knew he couldn’t make safe progress. Every moment matters. Please never delay in calling for assistance, in Clifden RNLI we are ready to respond 24/7.'
Ends
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