Rosslare Harbour RNLI, the Irish Coast Guard’s Rescue 117 helicopter crew from Waterford and a fishing boat crew came to the aid of two people onboard a yacht which was taking on water in heavy seas 20 miles south-east of Rosslare Europort.
Rosslare Harbour’s all-weather lifeboat was launched at 9.15am on Tuesday morning (13 August) at the request of the coastguard. Seas were heavy in a Force 6 south-easterly wind at the time.
Once on scene, the volunteer crew assessed the situation and due to the yacht's crew being unable to make safe onward progress, it was decided to attach a towline. The yacht was then brought back safely to Rosslare Europort, arriving at 1.15pm. Both crew members were safe and well.
Speaking following the call-out, Alan Murphy, Rosslare Harbour RNLI launch authority said: “We would like to commend the sailors for raising the alarm when they knew they were in difficulty; that is always the right thing to do and we wish them well.
“We also want to thank our colleagues in Rescue 117 and the crew of the fishing boat. This is another example of excellent cooperation with emergency service colleagues and other vessels at sea in the area. And of course, thanks to our volunteer crew members for effecting a successful service in difficult conditions.
“We encourage anyone planning a trip or activity at sea to always go prepared. Check weather and tides before venturing out, carry the right equipment for a safe journey including a means of communication. Always wear a lifejacket or suitable flotation device for your activity. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
The lifeboat crew were coxswain Eamonn O’Rourke, mechanic Mick Nicholas, Keith Morris, Micheál Ferguson, David McCusker and Mitch Hewitt. Shore crew was Peter Carr.
