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British to investigate Swilly
accident
25.03.09
BRITISH marine accident
investigators are to investigate the grounding of a
fishing vessel in Lough Swilly at the weekend.
The 18m 'Niamh Áine' ran aground in the early hours
of Sunday below cliffs at Leenan with six crew,
including its English skipper, on board. |
All six were
winched to safety by the Sligo-based Coast Guard
helicopter with assistance from Lough Swilly RNLI
crews and Malin Head Marine Rescue Co-ordination
centre.
While the 'Niamh Aine' is Donegal-owned, it is
registered in Britain and as such comes under the
remit of the British Marine Accident Investigation
Branch (MAIB). It is understood the appointment of a
MAIB team indicates the priority being given to the
investigation. The crab-fishing vessel which has
been damaged on the rocks, has shifted since the
Sunday's grounding. It is likely to have been hit by
strong Atlantic swells exacerbated by Tuesday's
stormy weather. The 'Irish Times' reports today that
the |
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vessel now poses a
minor pollution risk. It had an estimated three
tonnes of diesel on board when the accident
happened. Meanwhile, the Irish Coast Guard is
working with the boat's owner, Patrick Friel, on a
salvage plan. For previous story,
click here |
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