Kilmore Quay RNLI launched Monday afternoon (15 June) to assist the crew of an eight-metre motorboat with engine failure adrift in fog near the Saltee Islands.
The volunteer crew were requested to launch their all-weather Tamar class lifeboat Killarney by the Irish Coast Guard at 2.43pm.
Under coxswain Aidan Bates and with five crew members on board, the lifeboat promptly launched and made its way to the scene. Visibility was poor with dense fog covering the area and a slight sea state.
Arriving at the location at 3.06pm, the lifeboat crew checked that everyone on board the vessel was safe and well before assessing the situation.
Taking into consideration the fog and position of the boat, it was decided that the safest course of action was to establish a tow to bring the disabled craft back to shore.
The lifeboat was soon under way to the nearest available harbour at Kilmore Quay, arriving at 3.56pm. Once the casualty vessel safely secured at the pontoon, the lifeboat returned to its berth in the marina and was made ready again for service.
File image of Wexford RNLI’s D class inshore lifeboat on exercise | Credit: RNLI/Nathan Williams
Elsewhere in Co Wexford, the volunteer crew of Wexford RNLI launched their inshore lifeboat on Saturday afternoon (13 June) following reports of a capsized boat with a person in the water on the Ferrybank side of the River Slaney.
On arrival, the lifeboat crew — including helm Damien Foley and crew members Andy Ennis, Kevin Fitzharris and David Murray — observed that the boat had been safely towed to the slipway by another small boat operating in the area.
The casualty was also ashore and the lifeboat crew went to speak to them to ensure they were OK. Although shaken by the incident, the person was uninjured and did not require any further assistance and thanked the volunteer crew for their response.
Speaking following the call-out, Wexford RNLI helm Damien Foley said: “While incidents on the water can happen unexpectedly, this call-out highlights the importance of being prepared.
“We would like to commend the casualty who was wearing a lifejacket and the crew of the other vessels in the area who recognised the pan-pan call and responded appropriately. This shows that important water safety messages are being heard and acted upon.
“We would encourage anyone planning a trip on the water to always wear a suitable lifejacket, carry a means of calling for help and ensure someone ashore knows their plans before setting out. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
Kilmore Quay seeks new lifeboat operations manager
While the lifeboats and their crew are often the most well-known part of the RNLI, there are many ways to be involved with the RNLI. The RNLI’s lifeboat station in Kilmore Quay is currently looking for a volunteer to lead the existing team in the role of lifeboat operations manager.
This shore-based role is a great opportunity to join a remarkable team, learn new skills and make a real difference in our community. More information can be found on the station’s social media, via the RNLI website, or by calling to the station in Kilmore Quay at 053 912 9690.
