LIVE: Emergency services rescue two people from crisis situation in Tipperary

On Friday evening, July 5, Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to launch to assist two people on a 20ft cruiser that had suffered engine failure.

The vessel was reported to be at anchor at south of Terryglass Bay on the eastern shore of the lake.

At 9.05pm Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with helm Eleanor Hooker, crew Doireann Kennedy and Paraic Slattery on board. 

At 9.24pm the lifeboat had the casualty vessel in sight. It was at anchor close to shore south of Gortmore Point on the eastern shore of the lake.

Using local knowledge and onboard navigation tools, the lifeboat steered a safe course to the cruiser.

Once alongside, an RNLI volunteer transferred across to the casualty vessel. The two people on board were safe and unharmed and wearing lifejackets.

The vessel’s anchor was off the starboard stern and holding firm.

Given the isolated location, progressive nightfall and the fact that the vessel was floating with but with engine failure, the helm made the decision to take the vessel under tow to the nearest safe haven at Terryglass Harbour.

At 9.46pm, with an RNLI volunteer and skipper remaining on board, the lifeboat took the vessel under an astern tow. At 10.25pm the casualty vessel was safely tied alongside at Terryglass Harbour.

The lifeboat departed the scene and was back at station at 11.10pm.

Christine O’Malley, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lough Derg RNLI, advises boat users to ‘make sure your engine is serviced before you set out and if in difficulty dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard’.