A HELICOPTER RESCUE operation was unable to lift an injured fisherman due to the bad weather early this morning.

The call to rescue the 30-year-old from a fishing vessel – 120 miles southwest of Mizen Head – was made to Valentia coastguard.

The Shannon rescue helicopter and Waterford rescue helicopter went to the scene. However – due to strong winds and a large sea swell – lift-off was not possible.

Valentia coastguard has confirmed to TheJournal.ie that the Waterford rescue helicopter is now on its way to rescue the fisherman.

It’s understood that the man suffered concussion but that his condition has improved and he has regained consciousness.