Rescue chopper evacuates fisherman

The Shannon-based Coast Guard helicopter has completed the evacuation of a crewman from an Irish fishing vessel located 160 miles West off Loop Head. The injured man has been taken on-board the Coast Guard helicopter, R115 and will be transferred to University Hospital Limerick where it was due to arrive at midday.

The operation was coordinated by the Coast Guard Marine Rescue Centre in Valentia who were initially alerted by the fishing vessel, via HF (hi frequency long range) radio.

Weather conditions on scene were described as challenging with north westerly winds exceeding 30 Knots but well within the operating limits of the Coast Guard helicopter.