An 88-metre Dutch trawler - the Alida - with a 26-strong crew, which got into difficulties off the east Cork coast yesterday afternoon, was making slow progress under tow to Cork last night but was expected to arrive safely despite gales gusting up to force nine.
The Alida lost power when its propellers were fouled by fishing nets and a second Dutch trawler - the Ocean Four - took it under tow. However, as conditions worsened off Ballycotton in Co Cork, the tow vessel decided to remain static until help arrived.
A major emergency response was launched involving the Irish Marine emergency helicopter, which went to Cork airport to stand by, two lifeboats, from Courtmacsherry and Ballycotton, a tug attending the Kinsale Head gas rig, and the LE Aisling, which was in the area.
The trawler, moving slowly towards the port of Cork under tow, was only 18 miles off the harbour late last night and heading directly into a south-west wind which was keeping it stable.
The Department of Marine spokesman said the captain had radioed to say there was no immediate danger and they hoped to reach port in the early hours. But if conditions worsened again, the plan was to remain outside of the harbour until early this morning.