Minister hails Limerick role in Thailand cave rescue

Fine Gael Minister Patrick O’Donovan has commended an east Limerick village for the role it played in the rescue of 12 boys and their football coach from underwater caves in Thailand.

Specialist diving equipment from Cappamore, Co Limerick was rushed to Thailand last week after local man, Cathal Mullane, responded to an emergency worldwide appeal for the kit. It proved crucial in the rescue of the boys and their coach who had been trapped underground for more than two weeks.

County Limerick TD and Minister of State at the Departments of Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform Patrick O’Donovan said: “This is absolutely fantastic for all in Cappamore and those involved in the rescue operation from the east Limerick community.

“The whole world has been gripped by this saga. Today, it has a happy ending for the boys, their coach and their families following a mammoth operation with personnel from around the world which also sadly resulted in one death.

“To think that Cappamore – probably more renowned for the achievements of native son, John Hayes, on the rugby field for Munster and Ireland, and Cappamore’s successful tradition on the GAA pitch, has played a key role in the rescue operation is phenomenal.

“I want to say well done to Cathal Mullane and all involved in Cappamore with their assistance to what occurred in Thailand. Cappamore is certainly on the worldwide map this week and all there fully deserve it,” Minister O’Donovan said.

ENDS