Search Underway Following Sinkage of Fishing Vessel in Carlingford Lough

A comprehensive search and rescue operation is currently in progress after a fishing vessel carrying two crew members went down in Carlingford Lough. While one individual was successfully saved, the second remains unaccounted for following the incident near Greencastle point.

The rescued man was retrieved by a nearby vessel and subsequently handed over to paramedics at Greenore harbour for medical attention. The emergency response was triggered after the Irish Coast Guard received a report from a member of the public at 12:30 BST.

The Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Belfast is managing the coordination efforts. Several assets have been deployed to assist, including Rescue 116, a Coast Guard helicopter based in Dublin, and the Greenore Coast Guard unit. Additionally, an RNLI lifeboat from Kilkeel was dispatched, along with rescue teams from Newcastle and Kilkeel. A Royal Navy helicopter also provided support during the operation.

Michael Muckian, chair of the Cooley Peninsula Community Alert group, noted that the vessel began to struggle in the early afternoon. He stated that multiple boats are currently scanning the lough for the missing person.

Speaking on the Evening Extra programme, Muckian highlighted the challenging conditions, describing the tide and currents at the site as "incredibly strong." He emphasized the community spirit driving the response, saying, "It really is a fishing and water-based community coming together to try and help those involved." He also credited local preparedness, adding, "The RNLI train here every Wednesday for eventualities like this and that training has been put to good use."

Environment Minister Andrew Muir expressed his condolences, stating, "The sinking of this vessel will come as a great shock to many and my thoughts are with all those affected by this incident - particularly the families of those involved and the wider fishing community in Carlingford." Muir also extended his gratitude to all organizations contributing to the search efforts.

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-02 22:47:51 UTC