RNLI Remains Vigilant

A sea tragedy was avoided off Co Donegal last night by the Bundoran RNLI lifeboat, which was launched after a female canoeist got into difficulties.

The woman, who had become separated from the canoe and left only with a paddle, had begun drifting out to sea, near Tullan Starnd.

Although a nearby male surfer came to her aid, they then both needed help and called to passer-bys along the Rougey Cliff Walk for assistance.

Malin Head Coastguard co-ordinated the rescue and the RNLI lifeboat was launched just after 8.45pm.

The woman was rescued safely and did not require any medical attention.

Meanwhile, people going to the seaside this bank holiday weekend have been urged to take extra care as coastguard staff are to go on a 48-hour strike over pay.

Emergency calls in coastguard stations around the UK will strike from Saturday to Monday with a knock on impact to border areas where there are often shared resources for sea rescues.

The Public and Commercial Services Union said its members are taking the action reluctantly, although this is the third strike by coastguard staff this year.

However, a spokesman from the RNLI, which works closely with the coastguard, said there should no be any effect on services in Northern Ireland.

"The RNLI have reviewed our ability to ensure that the lifeboats get to sea in a timely manner," he said.

(BMcC)