The Valentia MRSC tasked the Aran Islands Lifeboat on Friday afternoon following reports that a person walking along the coastline on Inis Mór had been knocked down by a wave and swept onto a ledge near the sea. The lifeboat was tasked alongside Rescue 118 and Aran Fire & Rescue.
The lifeboat launched from Cill Rónain harbour and made its way around the island towards the wormhole which is located on the South of Inis Mór. Weather conditions at the time were challenging with Force 7 south westerly winds and rough seas.
Aran Fire & Rescue had located and secured the casualty with a rope as large waves continued to break around the ledge. Rescue 118 arrived on scene and winched the casualty from the wormhole.
The Aran Islands lifeboat remained on standby until the casualty and the winchman were winched onto the helicopter safely. The casualty was transported to Galway University Hospital for further treatment and both the lifeboat and Aran Fire & Rescue were stood down.
Aran Islands Coxswain, Aonghus Ó hIarnáin, he said this was a challenging rescue in extremely difficult conditions.
"Great credit is due to Rescue 118 and Aran Fire & Rescue for their skill in carrying out the recovery safely and successfully.
"While walking along the coastline always keep a safe distance from cliff edges and slippery or unstable paths. Keep an eye on the sea and if you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast, dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard."
