Press release
Update On Humanitarian Migrant Rescue Operation In The Mediterranean Involving Lé James Joyce
Published on
Last updated on
Published on
Last updated on
The Minister with Responsibility for Defence, Paul Kehoe T.D. has confirmed that the Naval Vessel LE James Joyce was involved in a challenging rescue operation today in the Mediterranean. LE James Joyce rescued 453 people during the course of the operation. Tragically sixteen bodies were also recovered as part of the rescue operation.
The Minister stated "this has been a challenging day for the crew of LE James Joyce, and for the migrants involved. I would like to commend the Captain and the crew of LE James Joyce for their humanitarian achievement today in saving the lives of 453 people." Today’s operation brings to 678 the total number of persons rescued by LÉ James Joyce since Tuesday last (19 July).
Standard counselling services will be provided to the crew of LE James Joyce following today’s events.
Also, LÉ James Joyce was also involved in providing assistance today with the transit of a further 152 migrants.
In conclusion the Minister commented that "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have lost their lives, the survivors and the rescuers for whom this was a challenging operation.”
ENDS