Salvage ships come to the aid of a stranded cargo ship

A ship is reported to be in trouble at Hook Head, Co Wexford.

The freighter was reported to have lost power at 2.37pm this afternoon, shortly after it left Waterford Harbor. The vessel is understood to be floating about three miles offshore from Hook Head and returning to Waterford Harbor.

A Coast Guard spokesperson confirmed the incident.

“The ship carrying a coal cargo reported to MRCC Dublin earlier this afternoon that it had lost power. The Dunmore East, Kilmore Quay and Rosslare lifeboats, as well as the Waterford-based Coast Guard helicopter and Coast Guard unit Fethard, were immediately assigned, ”a spokesperson said.

Reports suggest bad weather in the area, with “force six or seven” southwest winds and “four to five meter seas.” It is understood that the lifeboats have established a trailer and are holding the boat at one point while waiting for further assistance.

A Waterford-based tugboat is expected on the scene shortly after 6 p.m.

“The Coast Guard has described the situation as stable and the vessel assisted by the lifeboat is adrift in an easterly direction awaiting the arrival of the tug,” the spokesperson said.

Elsewhere, a person was rescued from the water near Garrettstown in Cork. A spokesperson confirmed that a Courtmacsherry lifeboat, along with a 115 rescue helicopter from Shannon, recovered the individual who was being treated by medical professionals.