Award recognises Tit Bonhomme rescue efforts

The people of Union Hall and the rescue services have been presented with a Cork Person of the Month award in recognition of their heroic and inspirational efforts in the wake of the Tit Bonhomme trawler tragedy.

Bill Deasy and Fr Pierce Cormac accepted the award yesterday on behalf of all the people and agencies involved in the 26-day search and recovery operation.

Five men died when the Tit Bonhomme trawler went down at the mouth of Glandore Harbour on Jan 15.

The tragedy sparked one of the largest and most concentrated search and recovery operations in the history of the State.

The Irish Coast Guard and the Naval Service co-ordinated the search of

Glandore Harbour, with assistance from the Civil Defence, the gardaí, and local fishermen.

They were supported every day for over three weeks by hundreds of local volunteers who joined the sea and shore searches, and who organised feeding stations on the pier.

Their combined efforts resulted in the recovery of three bodies — Kevin Kershaw, Wael Mahamed, Attaia Shaban — within days. But the search for skipper Michael Hayes and the remaining Egyptian crewman, Saied Ali Eldin, continued for an incredible 26 days.

“Their efforts were an inspiration and an example to the country of what can be achieved in the face of tragedy and adversity when everyone works together,” said awards organiser Manus O’Callaghan.