Update: Salvage Control Unit established for vessel off the Isle of Anglesey
UK’s Secretary of State’s Representative (SOSREP), Mr Hugh
Shaw has established a Salvage Control Unit (SCU) to discuss a place of refuge
for the bulk carrier 'V Due' that remains in
a stable condition, despite a fire in the one its cargo holds off the Isle of
Anglesey.
The SCU – which included representations for the owners of
the vessel, insurers, SMIT Salvors, UK Coastguard, MCA Counter Pollution,
Environment Groups and Fire and Rescue Service
met earlier today and discussed interim plans for the future of the vessel.
SMIT Salvors has produced a draft outline plan for the
passage to port and the subsequent cargo discharge which is the preferred
option at this stage. This will be further developed when an agreement on the
place of refuge has been finalised.
SOSREP Hugh Shaw said: ‘Talks are continuing but I am
comfortable with the progress that has been made so far. The vessel is
currently stable, ventilation has improved significantly since yesterday and
the ship’s crew are safe and well. There is no evidence of any pollution
and I will continue to monitor that situation very closely. I have
established a Temporary Exclusion Zone (TEZ) of 500m to ensure that access to
the vessel is restricted to the ship’s crew and the salvors. The SCU will
meet tomorrow to discuss future plans including a suitable port for cargo
discharge.’