Tragedy averted in the Irish Sea

At least 16 people are being treated in several hospitals after a sudden squall capsized 91 small boats and sparked a massive emergency at Dun Laoghaire harbour.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) confirmed no-one was seriously injured while those taken to hospital were being treated for suspected hypothermia. "No life-threatening conditions have been reported," an HSE spokesman said.

Another 195 people were given medical attention at the scene as hospitals across the capital city were put on high alert.

The Irish Coast Guard, Dun Laoghaire and Howth lifeboats, Naval ship LE Aoife, local boats and a Coast Guard helicopter were all involved in the rescue operation after strong winds and gusts overturned the dinghies as they were being blown out to sea.

Youngsters pulled to safety described how gales whipped up in less than a minute turning the calm waters into treacherous conditions.

Irish President Mary McAleese praised the emergency services involved in the huge co-ordinated response.

"Thankfully a potential major tragedy has been averted," she said. "The immense efforts of the medical services who provided such wonderful support in response to this rescue must also be recognised."

About 110 children - all under the age of 16 and members of four yachting clubs based in Dublin - were wearing life-jackets when they were tossed into the water at around 2pm on Thursday.

The HSE activated its Major Emergency Plan and urged the public only to attend hospital emergency departments if absolutely necessary.