Dunmore East RNLI ensures safe return of three crew members stranded at sea

Having been notified by the Irish Coast Guard, the emergency pagers went off at 19:07, alerting the crew to a situation 23 nautical miles southwest of Dunmore East. An 11m fishing vessel with a crew of three had encountered engine troubles, leaving them stranded at sea. The volunteer lifeboat crew immediately mobilised, and the all-weather Shannon class lifeboat, William and Agnes Wray, was quickly dispatched to the troubled vessel.

Conditions were favourable when the lifeboat initially set out from Dunmore East. However, as the evening progressed, the weather turned, with the wind increasing to gale force 6-7 accompanied by a moderate sea swell. Despite the challenging conditions, the RNLI crew pressed on to reach the stranded vessel.

Approximately 1.5 hours after the initial alert, the lifeboat arrived at the fishing vessel. The crew found the fishermen safe but immobilised due to the mechanical failure.

Dunmore East RNLI coxswain, Roy Abrahamsson, commented on the situation: 'These incidents highlight the unpredictable nature of the sea. Even the most experienced and well-prepared crews can encounter problems. We commend the crew for making the correct decision to call for assistance when their engine failed.'

Upon assessment, the decision was made to take the fishing vessel on tow back to the safety of Dunmore East Harbour. Despite the challenging conditions, the homeward journey was carried out without incident, and the fishing vessel was safely moored in Dunmore East Harbour and the lifeboat ready again for service at approximately 2am.

Continuously prepared to respond to maritime emergencies, the Dunmore East RNLI lifeboat station operates around the clock, seven days a week. We encourage all seafarers to uphold rigorous safety measures and equip themselves adequately for any unforeseen situations. Should you find yourself or witness others in maritime peril, make immediate contact with the Coast Guard by dialing 999/112 or through Marine VHF Channel 16.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.