Dutch diver doing well after being airlifted off Donegal coast

The coast guard in Donegal has advised all vessels taking to sea to inform them of their proposed journeys in advance after a Dutch driver was airlifted from a dive boat suffering from decompression sickness.

The Sligo-based Irish Coast Guard helicopter was tasked to the boat which was 15 miles off Sheephaven Bay at 3.30pm on Sunday afternoon.

The vessel which launched from Mevagh, Downings reported the diver was displaying symptoms of the bends after taking part in a 57 metres dive on a wreck. He was one of eight divers taking part in the dive.

Malin Head coast guard station officer Denis Moloney said phone calls to dive chambers in Galway and Craigavon were made and the coastguard helicopter was advised to get the diver to hospital as soon as possible.

The helicopter airlifted the diver from the vessel at 4.10pm and he was flown to Craigavon Area Hospital where he arrived at 5.30pm.

The diver is said to be making a good recovery.

Mr Moloney said the dive boat had informed the coast guard in advance of its movements and this helped in carrying out the rescue.

“We would recommend any craft to contact us in advance with information about their  movements,” he said. “All vessels, including leisure craft, should call the coastguard and give that information. They should check the weather in advance of leaving and make everyone on board is wearing a life jacket.”