16-06-2025
New Wicklow RNLI volunteers save fishermen on first callout
The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O'Shea was launched under the command of coxswain Nick Keogh at 1.40pm on Friday afternoon following a pager alert from the Coast Guard. The volunteer crew also consisted of Adelaide Kane and Cian Kelly, who were both responding to their first callout.
The lifeboat was alongside the 12-metre fishing boat within 25 minutes of having launched, in a position ten miles northeast of Wicklow Harbour. Conditions at the scene were wind south westerly in direction, force six with moderate sea and good visibility.
Speaking after the call out, Wicklow RNLI coxswain Nick Keogh said: 'Once alongside, we carried out a quick assessment of the fishing vessel and found it had lost all power. So, the safest course of action was to tow the boat back to Wicklow Harbour.'
A towline was quickly set up, and course was set for Wicklow harbour at 2.10pm. The fishing vessel was secured alongside the south quay and the three fishermen were landed safely ashore.
Wicklow RNLI PRO Tommy Dover said: 'We give a special mention to trainee crew, Adelaide Kane and Cian Kelly, who went to sea today on their first 'shout' as Wicklow RNLI crew members, we are very proud of their dedication and commitment.'
