Clogherhead RNLI launched during multi-agency response to swimmers in difficulty at Port Beach
- Pat Nolan
- 13 hours ago
- 2 min read
Thursday 30 July 2026
Clogherhead RNLI launched its all-weather lifeboat on Tuesday afternoon (28 July) following reports of a swimming incident involving three people at Port Beach, Lurganboy, Co. Louth.
The volunteer crew were requested to launch at 4.48pm by Dublin Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre after reports of an incident at the northern end of the beach.
As the lifeboat made its way to the scene, local Coast Guard personnel, who were first on scene, confirmed that the three swimmers had managed to make their way safely ashore. They carried out an initial assessment, with two of the casualties having ingested a significant amount of water. As a precaution, both were airlifted by the Irish Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 116, from the beach to hospital for further assessment and observation.
Gardaà and the National Ambulance Service also attended the incident as part of the multi-agency response.
With all casualties safely ashore and receiving medical attention, the Clogherhead RNLI lifeboat Shannon was stood down at 5.03pm and returned to station, where the volunteer crew prepared the lifeboat for its next service.
The volunteer crew on the callout were Coxswain Brian Sharkey, Mechanic Barry Sharkey and crew members Derek Shevlin, Carol Holdcroft, Barbara Kirk and Patrick Rath. They were supported ashore by shore crew Brian Boylan, Shamey McEvoy, Carolyn Stanley, Paul Finn and Kevin Wallace.
Speaking following the callout, Clogherhead RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Paul Johnstone said:
"We are glad the swimmers got to safety and would like to wish them well. We also commend our colleagues in the Coast Guard for their work.
"The north end of Port Beach can be deceiving, with sudden drop-offs in seabed levels and strong currents. We would encourage anyone planning an activity on or near the water to check the weather forecast and tide times before heading out. If walking along the shoreline, remain alert to rising tides, which can quickly lead to stranding.
"Choose a lifeguarded beach where possible, swim with others and stay within your depth. Be aware of rip currents, which can rapidly carry even strong swimmers away from shore. If you get into difficulty or see someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard."