Man dies after jet ski incident in Co Clare

Cillian Sherlock, PA

Updated 7.30am

A body has been recovered from a lake in Co Clare following a jet ski incident.

Gardaí and other emergency services attended the scene of an incident in Lough Derg at Killaloe, Co Clare.

Valentia Coast Guard coordinated a search-and-rescue operation in conjunction with gardaí and the National Ambulance Service.

The Shannon-based coast guard helicopter R115 and Killaloe Coast Guard Unit were sent to the scene.

While two people were able to make their way to shore, the Department of Transport said a male did not.

Following a further search, his body was recovered and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Irish Coast Guard extended its sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased.

Speaking on Thursday morning, the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Tony O’Brien, said conditions on Lough Derg on Wednesday evening were “idyllic” when the incident occurred.

Cllr O’Brien told RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland that an investigation is underway to determine how the incident occurred.

“There wasn’t a ripple on the water. It was idyllic,” he said.

That section of Lough Derg was very popular for water sports, with many visitors coming to the area for the day to enjoy amenities, he said.

Cllr O’Brien called on anybody entering waterways in any part of the country to “respect the water” as when “it turns back on you” it can lead to tragedy.