16/12/2011

Oil Tanker Cracks Force Detour To Belfast

The Port of Belfast is being reported as the emergency destination for a troubled vessel off the coast of Ireland today.

It is currently transporting more than 50 tonnes of fuel along the northwest, but has this morning radioed for assistance to report cracks in the ship, and to seek advice on a port where it could undergo repairs.

The Irish Coastguard service is assisting the crew of the tanker after the captain contacted the Coastguard.

The vessel is currently moored off Tory Island and it is hoped Belfast will be able to accommodate it.

The Genmar Companion was en route from Rotterdam to New York carrying 54,000 tonnes of gas oil when the captain requested help.

The 228-metre vessel halted 25 miles off Tory Island before beginning the journey to Belfast to make repairs.

The Irish naval vessel, the LE Niamh, is on its way to the tanker and an Irish Aer Corps plane is monitoring the situation.

However, Malin Head Coastguard said all 23 people on board were "safe and sound".

"There are no leaks on the vessel, and it is a precautionary measure to go to Belfast," a spokesman told the BBC.

(BMcC/GK)

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