Fethard-on-Sea inquiry adjourned pending reports

The inquest into the deaths of five people who lost their lives in a boating tragedy off the Wexford coast last July was adjourned…

The inquest into the deaths of five people who lost their lives in a boating tragedy off the Wexford coast last July was adjourned at New Ross Courthouse this afternoon to allow for the completion of an investigation by the Department of the Marine.

Four men and one teenage boy lost their lives, when the fishing trawler Piscessunk off the County Wexford coast at Fethard-on-Sea on the morning of Sunday, July 28th.

Three generations of the same family, New Ross undertaker Jim Cooney (60), his son-in-law Seamus "Seamie" Doyle (33) and grandson Mark Doyle (13) were among the dead. Two friends of the family John Cullen and Martin Roche were also killed.

Wexford Coroner Mr Jimmy Murphy, opening the hearing, said the tragedy had a profound effect on the Wexford community. He told those present that the case would be opened briefly to hear the evidence of Dr Bob Landers, who carried out the autopsies, so that the death certificates could be issued. This would allow the respective families to carry out all the necessary formalities.

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Dr Landers said his examination showed that all five had died of asphyxia as a result of drowning.

The Waterford-based pathologist said no external injuries were visible on any of the bodies, apart from superficial bruising under the knees of Mark Doyle.

Supt Tom Saunderson of New Ross Garda Station, said that the investigation into the sinking of the Pisceswas on-going.

"The investigation into the sinking of the Pisces is not complete. The Department of the Marine findings and report on the examination of the boat are not yet available," said Supt Saunderson.

The case was adjourned until all the necessary reports are available.