The body of a man recovered off the Galway coast in the early hours of this morning has been identified as that of Inishbofin fisherman John Burke.
Malin Head Coast Guard was notified by radio at about 10.15pm last night that a fisherman was overdue and presumed missing off Inishbofin.
It is understood Mr Burke's boat had not returned to shore for two days and was found overturned near where his body was found.
A search of the area on the east and north coastline took place, with Coast Guard Helicopter R118 on the scene.
Lifeboats from Clifden RNLI were also launched and gardaí from Letterfrack assisted.
The body of the 51-year-old was located off the north shore at Cloonamore by local members of the community.
A helicopter was sent to the location and Mr Burke's remains were transferred to Inishbofin Airfield before being taken by lifeboat to Clifden at around 4.30am.
His body has been removed to the mortuary at University Hospital Galway, where a post-mortem examination will be carried out.
Divisional Controller at the Valencia Coordination Centre John Draper said Mr Burke was a local crab fisherman.
Speaking on RTÉ's News at One, he said the sea was relatively rough last night.
"As it stands, we don't know what occurred with the incident," he said.
Clifden-based Fianna Fáil Councillor Gerry King said he and the community were "saddened" to hear the news.
"John was a very experienced fisherman and would have known the area he was fishing in very well but unfortunately something went wrong," Cllr King said.
"John was always good company and ready to help others when needed. I would like to send my condolences to John's family and relatives in what is a very tough time.
"I would also like to pay tribute to all the rescue on scene who assisted in the operation."
