The Irish Defence Forces have rescued 326 refugees from three boats near the Libyan coast.

The LÉ Niamh encountered a vessel 58km north of Tripoli at 9.50 this morning.

Along with another vessel, the navy ship distributed lifejackets and took aboard a number of refugees.

Shortly after the LÉ Niamh encounterd two vessels 64km north of Tripoli and took aboard all refugees. 

In total, 317 male, 11 female and 1 child have been taken aboard and are receiving water, food and medical assistance where required.

The LÉ Niamh is due at the Italian port of Pozzallo at about 8am tomorrow.