Rescue tugs on way to stricken sub

Rescue tugs are on the way to a stricken Canadian submarine stranded off the north-west coast after one of her crew lost his life to the catastrophe.

Two tugs are on course to arrive on the scene later today, following the death of one of the sailors. He was rushed to hospital in Sligo last night in an emergency operation.

A rescue helicopter airlifted the crewman and two of his injured colleagues off the stricken ship and was forced to land at Sligo General Hospital after the critical man’s condition deteriorated rapidly.

They were among nine casualties who suffered smoke inhalation after a blaze broke out on the HMCS Chicoutimi when it was 100 miles off the west coast of Ireland.

Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin last night paid tribute to the sailor. “He gave his life serving his country and we owe his family our deepest condolences,” he said.

A spokeswoman for Sligo General, where the other men are being treated, said they were in a “stable” condition.

British forces mounted a comprehensive operation to go to the Chicoutimi’s rescue after the captain of the vessel called for help at 3pm on Tuesday, but have been battling against “treacherous” weather conditions.

The Government is expected to grant permission for the submarine to take shelter in Blacksod Bay in Co Mayo.

The vessel was en route from the UK to Canada.