Body of fisherman (50s) recovered off coast of Inishbofin

A man’s body has been recovered on the north shore of Inishbofin island off the coast of Connemara, Co Galway.

The alarm was raised on Wednesday night when the Malin Head Coast Guard was told a local fisherman and his vessel were were overdue and presumed missing.

“The Coast Guard at Malin Head initiated a search in the area of Inishbofin Island on the east and north coastline with Coast Guard helicopter R118 on scene and both lifeboats from Clifden RNLI,” the Department of Transport said. “Just before midnight, R118 confirmed that the body of the fisherman was located by local members of the community on the northern shore of the island. The Coast Guard extends its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.”

It is understood that the man, who was aged in his 50s and came from Inishbofin, had not been seen since Tuesday. His remains were taken by lifeboat to Clifden at about 4.30am on Thursday.