LÉ Eithne to hand 399 migrants over to Italian authorities

Irish vessel the LÉ Eithne is expected to dock in a port in Italy today, with 399 migrants on board rescued from the Mediterranean over the weekend.

The 280 men, 78 women and 41 children were rescued by the Irish boat during two operations.

In total the LÉ Eithne has picked up more than a thousand migrants so far and its mission is due to last 10 weeks.

It is understood the 399 people picked up over the weekend will be handed over to the Italian authorities this morning.

Crew from the LÉ Eithne rescuing migrants.