The fishing community of Kilmore Quay is this week counting its blessings that tragedy was averted as a local fishing vessel sunk rapidly on Thursday afternoon, but both crewmembers escaped uninjured.
Mick Nolan and Eamon Chapman were on board the 10m vessel “Napier” when it began to take on water while located just south west of the Saltee Islands. The men issued a mayday alert on the marine radio and were forced to evacuate shortly before 4p.m.
Crews on board other fishing vessels rushed to their aid after they learned that the men were in difficulty. Crewmembers of the “Roney” rescued the men from the life raft.
In the meantime the Kilmore Lifeboat and Rescue 117 helicopter had already been launched and continued to make their way to the scene. The lifeboat reached the men and they were transferred onboard the lifeboat which took the men ashore at Kilmore Quay. 
Weather conditions at the time were described as overcast with a force three wind blowing.
Speaking following the call out, Aidan Bates, Kilmore Quay RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer said: ‘We are happy to report that both fishermen have been returned safe and well to Kilmore Quay this evening. The casualties had managed to leave the sinking vessel and transfer to a life raft before they were taken onboard a nearby vessel. The men were then transferred on to the lifeboat and brought back to the harbour.’