26/09/2004

Lifeboat pays last respects to Island Chieftain

It was a sad and lonely spectacle on Sunday afternoon, as the Baltimore lifeboat joined a flotilla of 19 boats to accompany Conchubair O’Drisceoil, former chieftain of the O’Driscoll clan on his last journey home to Cape Clear Island. Conchubair died after a sudden illness on Saturday evening 25th September. Fishing boats, ferries, RIBs, traditional sailing vessels and other pleasure craft joined with the lifeboat to salute a man who played an important role in local maritime affairs. Fr. Kevin O’Regan led the mourners in a prayerful ceremony at sea, off Bird Island, where flowers were scattered in his memory.

The Naomh Ciaran II was always a welcome sight in local waters and Conchubhair as her skipper and operator was acknowledged widely for his skills both at sea and ashore. He was a man with a generous spirit, and welcomed all to the pier in North Harbour. He was of great assistance to many visitors and locals with his vast knowledge of the seas and Islands of Roaring Water Bay.

Our hearts go out to his family, friends and neighbours on Cape Clear Island, who will miss him so much. Ar dheis Dé go raibh ar a anam.

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