By Dan Walsh
A lone boatman was observed struggling to make ground with oars whilst being blown away from the shore and the Irish Coast Guard requested the launch of Fethard RNLI at 3.30pm yesterday (Friday).
Fethard RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was launched at Fethard Dock and headed to area a half a mile off The Windy Gap. The weather was good, with good visibility and a force 4 South-Westerly wind.
The lone boatman took his flat-bottomed punt to check on a bigger vessel that was moored, when the wind overpowered the small craft. Upon arrival at the casualty vessel, the crew assessed the situation, brought the casualty on board the lifeboat, established a towline and towed the vessel to the safety of Fethard Dock.
Commenting about the call out Mick Roche, Volunteer Helm said; “Today’s shout highlights the huge importance of always having a means to call 999 or 112. It also should encourage all members of the public engaging in water activities to know the local tides and weather, in particular the direction of the wind, and if an offshore wind is blowing.”
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