MEMBERS OF THE Defence Forces revived five people, including a baby, who were rescued in the Mediterranean yesterday.

A number of pregnant women and new mothers are among the now record 712 people currently aboard the naval vessel.

Commander Brian Fitzgerald said that while some of those saved are in a “wretched condition”, the work of his team meant that all 712 survived and there was no loss of life.

Speaking on Morning Ireland, Fitzgerald said he was extremely proud of the team on the LÉ Eithne.

He said: “I’m very proud to say that no lives were lost. They were in a wretched condition but healthy enough. We took on board five unconscious migrants including one baby. Each of these received CPR administered on the RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boat). All five were revived.”

Commander Fitzgerald also added that there are currently 14 pregnant women on board, three of whom are over eight months pregnant.

“I have never witnessed a performance from an Irish team like I did today. Each and every member played their hearts out.”

The LÉ Eithne carrying out yesterday's rescue mission. Source: Defence Forces

The LÉ Eithne was deployed to the Mediterranean on 23 May 2017, as part of the government’s response to the refugee crisis.

The Irish navy’s role is to provide a search and rescue capability and undertake humanitarian rescue operations at sea.

Read: Irish Navy rescues over 700 people off Libyan coast

Read: An Irish Naval vessel is heading to the Mediterranean for our seventh migrant rescue mission