MEDIA RELEASE
Monday, 29 April 2013
 
Damaged Fishing Boat Being Assessed In Timaru
 
The fishing vessel that struck rocks off Stewart Island over the weekend is now berthed in Timaru while the damage is assessed.  Environment Canterbury will be monitoring the vessel during its stay.
 
“Once the extent of damage is ascertained by operators of the Sur Este 700 they plan to prepare the vessel for repair work in Lyttelton,” explains Regional Harbourmaster Jim Dilley.
 
“While it is berthed in Timaru, oil spill booms will be placed around the damaged area of the vessel in case of any discharge of diesel.”
 
To further reduce the chance of spills and leaks, approximately 20,000 litres of diesel and diesel /water mix were pumped from the damaged tank into another tank before the vessel’s arrival.
 
Mr Dilley says that Environment Canterbury will be working with the vessel operator and port companies to ensure minimal environmental damage.
 
“We’re all working together to protect the local marine environment as much as possible and to ensure the safety of navigation is not affected.”
 
ENDS

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