Skerries RNLI respond to ill crew member six miles off shore

Skerries RNLI responded to call from the skipper of a survey vessel located six miles north of Skerries at 8pm yesterday after a crew member felt unwell.

In a statement, the Skerries RNLI said: “The lifeboat was launched and proceeded directly to the co-ordinates provided.

“As they approached the survey vessel, a boarding ladder was lowered on the starboard side.

“The lifeboat was carefully maneuvered into position, and the casualty was helped on board.

“The lifeboat crew carried out an initial assessment of the casualty and tried to keep them as comfortable as possible on the way back to the station.”

An ambulance was waiting for the rescued man when the boat returned and was taken to hospital for further assessment.

“At the time there was a force five to six south to south west wind blowing and there was a moderate sea swell,” the RNLI said.

Speaking about the call out, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Skerries RNLI, Gerry Canning said: ‘It wasn’t a particularly pleasant evening to be out on a lifeboat, but our volunteers are always ready to go when they get the call.

“It was great to have the ambulance waiting on arrival and we wish the gentleman a speedy recovery.”