Donaghadee RNLI assists fisherman east of the Copeland Islands

The crew were paged at 11.20pm and requested by HM Coastguard to launch the lifeboat Macquarie and assess the situation following a report that a 24m fishing boat had made contact with an 88m cargo vessel just east of the Copeland Islands.

Under Coxswain Stephen McComiskey, the lifeboat launched into a south westerly wind, with good visibility and a slight to moderate sea state. The lifeboat was able to make best speed and be on scene before midnight.

Upon arriving alongside the fishing boat, the crew established communication with the skipper who confirmed he was uninjured and there was no pollution. The skipper advised he did not require assistance but asked the lifeboat crew to inspect the exterior of their vessel which they did.

Following the assistance, the skipper continued course as did the cargo vessel.

Following the call out, Donaghadee RNLI Coxswain Stephen McComiskey said: ‘We were alerted promptly to the situation, and the swift turnout of our volunteer crew proved beneficial, allowing us to provide early assistance to the fishing vessel. Had the circumstances changed or further assistance been required, we were on hand and ready to respond. I would like to thank our volunteer crew for their prompt response and for acting with the professionalism they consistently demonstrate.’

Ends

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Margaret Ramm, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Donaghadee RNLI at [email protected]

Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Ireland, 087 648 3547, [email protected]

Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Ireland, 087 125 4124, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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