Update: The missing man was located safe and well.
The Shannon-based Irish Coast Guard search and rescue helicopter has rejoined the search for a fisherman reported missing on Lough Corrib in Co Galway last night.
A search operation was mounted after the Irish Coast Guard was alerted at around midnight reporting the fisherman overdue. It’s understood the man was the only person on board the lake boat.
It’s believed the man in his 80s launched his boat from Golden Bay on Saturday and failed to return home. The man’s wife raised the alarm late last night. The boat is described as being grey with a red stripe.
The volunteer Corrib Mask Search and Rescue team was initially alerted at around midnight.
Also on scene were vessels from Costelloe Bay Coast Guard, Boyne Fisherman’s Rescue and Recovery and the local fishermen from Cong Angling Club.
The Sligo-based Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 118, was scrambled to search the area. After carrying out a comprehensive search, Rescue 118 return to base while the Rescue 115 was dispatched from Shannon to continue the effort.
A number of Coast Guard search teams are also involved in the major operation. The island is dotted with dozens of island which are also being searched.
Following a comprehensive search the operation was stood down at 3.30am but resumed at first light at which time Corrib Mask Search and Rescue launched two boats.
The search is being coordinated on the ground by An Garda Síochána and also involves local fishermen and boaters.
