A winch paramedic has been recognised for his role in rescuing 14 fishing crew in Dingle last year.
Bristow Ireland Winch Paramedic James O'Neill received The Billy Deacon SAR Memorial Trophy for his role in the rescue in challenging weather conditions.
James O’Neill is a winch paramedic with Bristow Ireland who deliver aviation services on behalf of the Irish Coast Guard and he’s based at the Shannon Search and Rescue Helicopter base.
Last December he was involved in the rescue of 14 crew members from the 28-metre French fishing vessel Fastnet, which suffered engine failure and was driven ashore at the base of cliffs close to Dingle Harbour.
The rescue operation took place in a relentless Atlantic swell and near gale force winds with the vessel in danger of capsizing or breaking up leaving its crew in a life-threatening situation.
During the operation, James O’Neill was exposed to the full force of the conditions and had to cope with numerous hazards on board the tilting and moving deck. He located the 14 crew who were sheltering in the wheelhouse fearing for their lives.
He then organised their evacuation which involved a 50-minute winching operation.
The award committee say under extreme pressure, James O’Neill showed superb professionalism in a high-risk environment demonstrating courage and skill.
George Rawlinson MBE, award committee chair, says this was an incredibly demanding rescue. He praised James, along with winch operator Eamonn O’Broin, the flight crew of Captain Robert Goodbody and co-pilot Paraic Slattery.
He also said deserved recognition should go to the expert co-ordination of the service by Valentia Coast Guard, and considerable contributions from Valentia RNLI Lifeboat and the Dingle Coastguard Rescue team.
