The Lough Derg RLNI lifeboat was called out this evening to assist a group of six people after their vessel suffered engine failure close to the Clare shore.
The volunteer crew, based at Dromineer in Co Tipperary, was tasked shortly before 7.00pm by watch officers at the Irish Coast Guard’s marine rescue sub centre on Valentia in Co Kerry.
The lifeboat crew was requested to launch and assist 6 people on a 31ft cruiser, which had suffered engine failure close to Dromaan Harbour south of Williamstown in East Clare.
By 7.06pm the lifeboat was alongside the casualty vessel and all 6 people on board were found to be safe and unharmed and wearing their lifejackets.
Given the isolated location, the hour and that there were seniors and infants on board, the helm made the decision to take the casualty vessel under tow back to Dromineer, where the casualties had their car and a means to get home. The helm informed Valentia Coast Guard Radio of this decision.
The casualty vessel was safely tied alongside in Dromineer Harbour at 7.38pm. The lifeboat was back at station at 7.56pm.
Aoife Kennedy, Launching Authority at Lough Derg RNLI advises boat users to ‘ensure your vessel is serviced before undertaking a journey. Always check the weather forecast and carry a means of communication’.
