We must keep rescue ships like the LE Eithne on our seas

The images of migrants being rescued by the LE Eithne off the Libyan coast (‘Irish navy ship rescues 201 migrants in Med’, Irish Examiner. May 29) stand in marked contrast to those of body bags and coffins which dominated the international media just a few short weeks ago.

The crew of the LE Eithne have shown that search and rescue gets results and must be continued. Their efforts not only bring pride to the Irish Navy but to all of Ireland.

The rescue of such a large number of people in one operation shows that, despite warnings not to make the crossing, people remain in a desperate situation and will risk everything to reach safety.