MOST READ (2024): Emergency in Tipperary as two adults and five children in crisis situation

On Thursday evening, July 11, Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to launch to assist seven people (2 adults and 5 children) on a 20ft cruiser that had suffered engine failure and drifting towards rocks, west of Garrykennedy Harbour.

At 4.45pm Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with helm Eleanor Hooker, crew Owen Cavanagh and Joe O’Donoghue on board.

The wind was a north-westerly, Force 4. Visibility was good.

As the lifeboat was launching, other boats in the vicinity hailed Valentia Coast Guard to say they were also making way to assist.

The area in which the casualty vessel was located is known locally for its choppy waters and sudden shallows.

As the lifeboat approached the location, Valentia Coast Guard informed the lifeboat that a small speedboat had taken the casualty vessel under tow to safe water.

The lifeboat was requested to continue to attend and arrived on scene at 4.55pm.

There were 2 motor cruisers standing by, and the small speed boat, having heard the call for help, had left Garrykennedy Harbour bringing a 5L can of fuel.

Once in safe water the casualty vessel refuelled and was able to make way under its own power.

Everyone on the casualty vessel was safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejackets.

At the request of Valentia Coast Guard, the lifeboat accompanied the casualty vessel to the safety of Garrykennedy Harbour.

The lifeboat departed the scene and was back at station at 5.30pm.

Mary Hurley, Launching Authority at Lough Derg RNLI, advises boat users to ‘make sure you plan your route before setting out. Always carry sufficient fuel for your journey and carry a reliable means of communication’.