Report of the Investigation into the Loss of a Crewman Overboard from the Irish Fishing Vessel "Dun Eochalla"
Reference
Report Name
Report of the Investigation into the Loss of a Crewman Overboard from the Irish Fishing Vessel "Dun Eochalla"
Location
Celtic Sea
Date of Incident
Friday 03 March 2000
Published
Monday 07 July 2003
Synopsis
On February 29th 2000, the Irish registered fishing vessel MFV "Dun Eochalla" sailed from Waterford. The vessel proceeded to beam trawl for monk and megrim around position 51 20 North, 00700 West in the Celtic Sea. There was a crew of four on board.\n\nOn 3rd March 2000, while hauling nets in position 50 50 North, 006 45 West, one of the crew, Mr. Maurice Swaine, was pulled overboard when he became entangled in the bag rope. It would appear that the weight suddenly came onto the rope and unfortunately he was standing in the bight of the rope which tightened around his left ankle and pulled him overboard. Weather conditions were moderate to rough.\n\nIn an attempt to rescue Mr. Swaine, the skipper entered the water attached to a line and made a brave attempt to get Mr. Swaine back on board. \nUnfortunately, he was not able to hold onto Mr. Swaine in the conditions and he appeared to sink.\n\nThe rescue services were contacted and assisted in the search for Mr. Swaine, with other vessels, throughout the day. To date, Mr. Swaine's body has not been recovered.
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