The Irish naval vessel the LE Roisín has rescued 125 refugees off the coast of Libya.

The operation was the first successful mission the crew has undertaken since being deployed at the start of this month.

The vessel launched the rescue after a request from the Italian Maritime Rescue Co-Ordination Centre. The migrants were taken from a rubber craft located 40 Nautical Miles North East of Tripoli. 

107 Males and 18 Females are now receiving food, water and medical treatment where required. They will be transferred to an Italian government reception centre. 

Minister of State for Defence Paul Kehoe has commended the officers involved.

More than 8,000 people were rescued by the Irish navy in the Mediterranean last year.

Images: Irish Defence Forces Press Office