Clifden RNLI’s volunteer crew launched both lifeboats on Thursday afternoon (11 July) to assist three divers who had experienced a rapid ascent near Friar Island.
The crew were tasked at around 4.15pm to reports of divers in difficulty a mile to the south of Inishbofin.
Helmed by Owen Hayes with crew Chris Nee and Conor O’Malley, the Atlantic 85 lifeboat Joyce King was launched and made way to the scene.
Clifden’s all-weather lifeboat followed under John Mullen as coxswain with Joe Acton, Dave Reilly, Caroline Barry and Shane Conneely as crew.
The inshore lifeboat crew arrived first on scene and came alongside the dive boat to escort the group back to the pier in Inishbofin. At this point Clifden's all-weather lifeboat St Christopher was stood down as the operation was under control.
Along with members of the local community, the inshore lifeboat crew helped the divers from the dive boat to the airstrip on Inishbofin, where they were airlifted by the Sligo-based Irish Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 118 to University Hospital Galway for hyperbaric treatment.
Speaking about the shout, Clifden RNLI helm Owen Hayes said: “At this time of year we expect to see people enjoying water sports and boating activities around our coasts. We want everyone to enjoy the water and come home safely.
“Please always remember to wear a lifejacket when out on the water, always carry a mobile phone or VHF radio to call for help in an emergency.
“Never delay if you think someone is in trouble in the water — every minute counts. Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard and our crew in Clifden will respond, 24/7.”
