An investigation into the sinking of the FV "Strath Marie" off Inishowen Head, Co. Donegal on 14th March 2008 has found no direct cause for the loss of both lives. The FV "Strath Marie" left Bunagee Pier, Culdaff, Co. Donegal to lift strings of pots. Crewmembers Mr. Francis McDaid and Mr. Daniel McDaid were on board.
The weather forecast was for south to southwest Force 3 or 4 with good visibility and slight to moderate sea state. The reported weather conditions on the day were better than the forecast. At 17.17 hrs. on 14th of March 2008 a "999" call was made as the "Strath Marie" was overdue.
At 18.13 hrs. on 14th March 2008 the first casualty was recovered from the water and at 20.38 hrs. the second casualty was recovered. Both men were brought to Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry where they were later pronounced dead.
Parts of the fishing vessel were later recovered and examined along with other evidence to try and establish the cause of the loss of the FV "Strath Marie". The full report is downloadable below.
