Engine fire on rib off coast of Cork

One of Cork’s RNLI crews were called out over the weekend to a rib which experienced an engine fire.

Castletownbere RNLI lifeboat Annette Hutton was paged 1.58pm and launched minutes later under the command of Deputy Coxswain Sean Bawn O’Sullivan with mechanic Donagh Murphy and Coxswain Joe O’Sullivan, crew Joe Cronin, Seamus Harrington, Dave O’Donovan and William O’Driscoll.

The lifeboat arrived on scene 12 minutes later about three-quarters of a mile outside the harbour’s mouth, just off Ardnakinna Lighthouse in West Cork.

Conditions were blustery with a force 6/7 westerly wind and a three metre swell. At this stage the boat skipper had quenched the engine and all people on board were calm. The lifeboat immediately took the rib, with six persons on board, in tow.

The owner of the boat, Paul O’Shea, expressed his gratitude: “From the time I called Coast Guard for help, Castletownbere lifeboat came into view within 11 minutes. I am very grateful to the crew for their speedy response and the professional manner in which they provided assistance.”

Once the lifeboat was within the calmer waters of Berehaven Harbour, the casualties were taken aboard the lifeboat and the rib towed alongside. All persons were safe and well. The lifeboat returned to Castletownbere and the rib was berthed and casualties went ashore.

The Lifeboat Launching Authority, Brendan O’Neill, said: “The skipper made the right call by contacting the Coast Guard immediately which meant that the lifeboat could launch and rescue the boat before conditions deteriorated.”