JACK ABRY II: WEATHER HALTS SALVAGE

After the incident co-ordinated earlier this week by Stornoway Coastguard which saw 14 crewmen evacuated from the stern Trawler Jack Abry II, subsequent monitoring has shown her firmly aground on the north coast of Rum in the Sound of Canna. 

Built in 2005 the 840 tonne vessel is 46 m in length. 

The fishing vessel crew reported that she had up to 140 tonnes of marine gas oil and 7000 litres of lubricating oil on board at the time of grounding

Yesterday the salvage team boarded the casualty and observed that the engine room was flooded and the main engine submerged. The two fish holds were also flooded and contained oil indicating that the fuel tanks below had been breached. The vessel is surrounded by rocks and close up to the cliff face with a 35 – 40 degree list to port. 

For safety reasons and in worsening weather the salvage team came off again in the afternoon. Salvage equipment continues to be mobilised from Holland. 

The weather on scene this morning was force 7 winds from the south west. The forecast for later today is further south westerly winds gale force 8 to violent storm 11. 

Based on the above prevailing weather and forecast there will be no opportunity to refloat the vessel at this time. 

Subject to improving weather conditions over the next few days the salvors will attempt to re-board the casualty, re-assess the damage and potential for repairs, check the technical feasibility of pumping out the flooded compartments and if possible remove any remaining fuel oil and pollutants. 

Marine Scotland and the Scottish Environment Group are being continually updated and have advised that there are no immediate environmental sensitivities at this time.

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