Update on rescue operation for trawler off Cork Coast

The fishing vessel ELLIE ADHAMH, the seven person crew of which were evacuated by Coast Guard Helicopters on Saturday evening, has sunk in approximately 80m of water over two miles North of the Bull Rock, at the entrance to Kenmare Bay. Valentia Coast Guard who coordinated the operation monitored the vessels situation overnight a suit drifted. A local Tug as hired by the owners was on scene all morning evaluating options to tow the vessel to a place of safety. A second local Tug was also proceeding to the scene but it was evident from early morning that the vessels condition was deteriorating.

A Coast Guard spokesperson expressed relief that there was no loss of life and acknowledged the professionalism of all who had been involved in the operation including Naval Service ship LE George Bernard Shaw, Castletownbere RNLI, Coast Guard Helicopter crews, owners and their representatives.

ENDS

Contact: Saorla Begley - Press Officer, Department of Transport - 086 891 5570, pressoffice@transport.gov.ie