A local fisherman has been praised for his swift actions and quick thinking which helped rescue three people on Sunday off the Galway coast.
Fisherman John O’Toole immediately called for assistance after spotting a boat which had lost power with three passengers on board.
Visibility was poor with heavy rainfall, and the small boat was drifting towards the rocks of Inishturk.
The volunteer crew from Clifden’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat launched at midday under the command of Helm James Mullen, with Joe Acton and Kenny Flaherty as crew, and Shane Conneely as Tractor Driver.
The crew made their way to the location in under five minutes, and by this time the fisherman had begun to tow the stricken vessel away from the rocks.
The lifeboat crew proceeded to escort both boats to safety.
Speaking about the shout, Clifden RNLI Helm James Mullen commended John O’Toole for his fast actions on Sunday.
“This could have been a very serious outcome for the three passengers involved but John called for assistance firstly, then located the boat and was in a position to safely assist them,” he said.
James also gave advice for anyone going afloat.
“When going to sea we would remind everyone to check their engine and fuel, always wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid, and carry a means of calling for help. If you see someone in difficulty on or near the water, dial 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
