Divers fail to locate more bodies from sunken trawler
Navy divers have accessed the wreck of the Tit Bonhomme for the first time since the trawler sank in a storm on Sunday morning.
A specialist team used remotely operated equipment to examine the wreck, which is lying in 12 metres of water just outside Union Hall in West Cork.
However, nothing was found in the operation, which lasted over two hours.
The comprehensive sea and shoreline search for the three remaining fishermen has continued throughout the day.
The remains of the two bodies found were those of 21-year-old Kevin Kershaw, who had been living in Clonakilty and was planning to use the money he earned fishing to emigrate to Australia, and Egyptian national Attia Shaban.
Still missing at sea is the skipper of the trawler, Michael Hayes — whose wife Caitlin has been taking part in the search — and two other Egyptian crew members, Wael Mohamad and Saied aly Eldin.
A sixth crew member, Abdo Mohamad, managed to make it to shore and has been among those who have gathered at the pier. The wreck is surrounded by nets and debris, and is close to the rocks, which has made it difficult for divers to get into the boat.
The Egyptian nationals on board the trawler had been living in Skibbereen, and a friend, local hackney driver Jean Hegarty, has set up a fund for those who wish to support their families at this time.
Donations can be made to the Union Hall Trawler Support Fund at the AIB branch at Skibbereen, sort code 936375, account number 10009183.
