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The Granuaile (left) alongside the tug Ocean Challenger during an earlier search. PA Wire/PA Images
rescue 116
Massive search fails to find Rescue 116 crewmen
Over 100 boats took to the waters on the northwest coast yesterday.
A MASSIVE DAY-long search for the two missing crew from Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 116.
Over 100 boats took to the waters on the northwest coast yesterday in the search for crew members Paul Ormsby and Ciarán Smith.
However, despite a massive search area, no trace of either was found.
Rescue 116 crashed three weeks ago while preparing to refuel at Blacksod, County Mayo.
The wreckage of the helicopter was recovered on Sunday, but there was no sign of missing crew members Paul Ormsby and Ciarán Smith.
Captain Dara Fitzpatrick was recovered at sea soon after the helicopter went down, but died later in hospital. The body of pilot Captain Mark Duffy was found in the wreckage of the helicopter last week.
Investigators have been working on the theory that part of the tail section of the aircraft struck rocks close to Blackrock lighthouse before crashing into the sea.
Searches will continue around the crash site and fishing vessels are being asked to remain vigilant.
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