Search launched after fishing boat's distress call

An air and sea search was going on off the east cost today after fears that a fishing vessel had sunk in the area.

The operation was concentrated off Co Wicklow following the interception of a distress signal by a boat three miles east of Greystones.

Later, debris – including fish boxes, oil drums, paint tins and brushes and gloves – was spotted floating in the water in the same area.

A coastguard helicopter, three lifeboats and a number of other craft were involved in the search, which was being co-ordinated by the naval service.