The Aran Islands RNLI were requested to launch by Valentia Coast Guard on Sunday afternoon at 4:46pm (3 May ) after reports that a person had separated from friends, while exploring Straw Island and had failed to return.
The Aran Islands lifeboat launched from Kilronan Harbour and quickly arrived on scene, alongside Rescue 115, where a search operation around Straw Island began.
At 5:27pm, a crew member who was searching along the shoreline, spotted the casualty in the water approximately 700 metres from Straw Island. The lifeboat quickly made way to the casualty and were able to pull them from the water and onto the lifeboat.
Once onboard the crew assessed the casualty, and the decision was made to winch them from the lifeboat onto Rescue 115. The casualty was then airlifted to hospital for further examination.
Speaking following the call out, Aran Islands Coxswain Aonghus Ó hIarnáin said they would like to extend their very best wishes to the casualty and hope for a full and speedy recovery.
“We also commend the casualty’s’ friends who didn’t hesitate to call the Irish Coast Guard and raise the alarm. This marks our third call out in three days and we would like to recognise the dedication and commitment of our volunteers, who consistently respond when paged.
“We would also like to extend our thanks to Rescue 115 & Aran Fire and Rescue for their reliability, dedication, and teamwork today and every day.’
If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use marine VHF radio Ch 16 or dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
