Lobster fisherman who died was not wearing lifejacket

A west Cork lobster fisherman who lost his life was not wearing a lifejacket, according to an official investigation.

The Marine Casualty Investigation Board report said the sea swell on the day was "more severe" than forecast and it was not safe for a sole fisherman in an open boat.

The incident, which occurred west of Castletownbere on August 17th, 2012, was not witnessed by anyone and the man’s body was found near the boat after a search. The board said it was “likely” a combination of sea swell and the jamming of gear contributed to a situation where the six-metre open craft was “inundated” with water and capsized.

It said the hauler used for lifting lobster pots should not have been fitted on the starboard stern quarter, where there was less stability.

The boat had no emergency equipment, such as distress flares, and no means of alerting rescue personnel.

The casualty, who is not named under a new policy adopted by the board, was not wearing a personal flotation device and the lifejacket on board did not inflate.