Kilkenny Gardai and Fire Service rescued a man and woman who got into trouble in the river Barrow in Graiguenamanagh early Sunday morning.
At around 1.30 am, Gardai were told that a person had gone into the river and then it transpired that a second person had entered the water just a short time before.
Gardai then found a woman clinging to the bank and a male clinging to a tree hanging over the river.
Two Gardai and a fireman then entered the water and with the aid of the lifebuoy were able to get it around the male.
At the same time, the fire brigade managed to help the female and all parties out of the water and to safety.
They were later removed to the hospital for treatment with no life-threatening injuries.
Superintendent Anthony Farrell, Thomastown has applauded all members for their actions, including the Fire Brigade.
“Sergeant John O’ Sullivan, Thomastown, Garda Kevin Fitzpatrick, Thomastown and Mr Michael Doyle, Fire Station Officer, Graiguenamannagh entered freezing cold water in darkness when the River Barrow was in flood. Two persons’ lives were saved in a situation at this time of year that ordinarily does not have a positive outcome,”.
“This is a happy story and speaks for itself about the lengths that members of An Garda Síochána and the Fire Service will go to keep people safe, at any time day or night. I cannot speak enough about the bravery shown by these three men. We are all immensely proud.” he added.
