Weather conditions slow search for missing fishermen

Weather conditions are working against the search operation for five fishermen, missing off the West Cork coast.

The search is now into its third day. Relatives of the men are being supported by the local community on the pier at Union Hall as they wait for news.

The Tit Bonhomie sank early on Sunday morning. Just one of its crew was rescued.

Diving operations are continuing, while local trawlers continue an extensive search of the inner harbour.

However, Coastguard spokesman Gerard O'Flynn said the weather means the divers have not made it to the wreck yet.

"Visibility is slightly reduced, it's a wet day as opposed to a dry day yesterday," he said.

"The wind continues to blow from the south-east, so while that wind prevails, the chances are somewhat reduced, but they are continually monitoring it, and watching for any possible opportunity to dive on the wreck.

"But the other dives are of equal importance, if not more importance, because they are focused on areas where high levels of debris have been found."