Missing soldier is from Mullingar

The soldier who went missing while swimming in the sea off Donegal yesterday is a Mullingar man, and his family and partner have travelled to Donegal.

The 29 year old is a member of the 2 Arty Regt, and is stationed in Athlone.

He has this week been in Finner Camp, undertaking a course in preparation for overseas service.

It is understood that six friends entered the water at a place called Rougey, when they got into difficulty.

Two of those in the party had to be rescued, but the Mullingar man was not rescued, and the search is currently ongoing.