Body of fisherman (50s) recovered off coast of Inishbofin

The man whose body was recovered on the north shore of Inishbofin island off the coast of Connemara, Co Galway has been named as local fisherman John Burke.

Councillors and locals spoke warmly on Mr Burke who was regarded as “an experienced fisherman” who would be missed by members of the community.

Clifden-based Fianna Fáil Councillor Gerry King told RTÉ he and the community were “saddened” to hear the news.

“John was a very experienced fisherman and would have known the area he was fishing in very well but unfortunately something went wrong,” Cllr King said.

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“John was always good company and ready to help others when needed. I would like to send my condolences to John’s family and relatives in what is a very tough time.

“I would also like to pay tribute to all the rescue on scene who assisted in the operation.”

Malin Head Coast Guard had been told late on Wednesday evening a local fisherman and his vessel were overdue in returning to shore and presumed missing.

“The Coast Guard at Malin Head initiated a search in the area of Inishbofin Island on the east and north coastline with Coast Guard helicopter R118 on scene and both lifeboats from Clifden RNLI,” the Department of Transport said. “Just before midnight, R118 confirmed that the body of the fisherman was located by local members of the community on the northern shore of the island. The Coast Guard extends its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.”

It is understood that the man, who was aged in his 50s and came from Inishbofin, had not been seen since Tuesday. His remains were taken by lifeboat to Clifden at about 4.30am on Thursday.

John Draper, divisional controller with the Irish Coast Guard at Valentia, said the conditions were challenging during the search.

“We understand that the man was a local crab fisherman from Inishbofin and he would have been fishing east of the island at the time. Weather conditions on scene for the search last night were westerly force five and the sea was relatively rough, three to four metres,” he said.

When asked if the incident happened in a dangerous area for fisherman, Mr Draper said any stretch of the coastline, particularly on the western seaboard, can be hazardous.

“It’s a hazardous, occupation. But these are local fishermen. They know the area. They have their local knowledge. So, as it stands, we don’t know what occurred in this incident.”

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