Multi-Agency Rescue Sees Casualty Safely Recovered From Inis Mór Ledge
Friday 25 September 2026
A major multi-agency rescue operation was carried out on Inis Mór this afternoon after a person walking along the coastline was knocked down by a wave and swept onto a ledge close to the sea.
The Valentia Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) tasked the Aran Islands Lifeboat at 1.38pm today, September 25, following reports of the incident.
The lifeboat was launched from Cill Rónain Harbour and proceeded around the island towards the Wormhole on the southern coast of Inis Mór, where the casualty was reported to be stranded.
Conditions at the time were challenging, with Force 7 south-westerly winds and rough seas making the rescue particularly difficult.
Aran Fire & Rescue personnel located the casualty and secured them with a rope as large waves continued to break around the ledge.
Rescue 118 subsequently arrived at the scene and winched the casualty from the Wormhole.
The Aran Islands Lifeboat remained on standby throughout the operation until both the casualty and the winchman had been safely winched aboard the helicopter.
The casualty was then airlifted to University Hospital Galway for further treatment.
Following the successful recovery, both the Aran Islands Lifeboat and Aran Fire & Rescue were stood down.
Speaking following the operation, Aran Islands Coxswain Aonghus Ó hIarnáin said the rescue had been carried out in extremely difficult conditions.
“This was a challenging rescue in extremely difficult conditions. Great credit is due to Rescue 118 and Aran Fire & Rescue for their skill in carrying out the recovery safely and successfully.”
He also issued a safety warning to people walking along the coastline.
“While walking along the coastline always keep a safe distance from cliff edges and slippery or unstable paths. Keep an eye on the sea and if you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast, dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
