Transfer of Tanker's Oil Cargo Further Delayed Due to Weather

High winds and inclement weather have further delayed the transfer of 54,000 tonnes of oil from a damaged oil tanker in Belfast Lough. The transfer was initially schedule for Saturday, December 31st.

The Genmar Companion has been anchored off the Copeland Islands after developing a crack in the upper deck in mid-December while sailing from Rotterdam to New York. The transfer could take up to 36 hours, and plans to complete the transfer soon are looking grim as severe weather warnings have been issued for the next day or two.

As soon as the oil is removed from the vessel, the ship will enter Belfast harbour for repairs. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency have secured preparations for the oil transfer to the BW Seine indefinitely. According to them, stringent safeguards would be observed throughout the operation to ensure the safety of the crew, the environment and other vessels in the area. When the delicate operation does begin, a temporary exclusion zone will be in place around the merchant vessel.

Concerns have arisen about the environmental impact if anything goes wrong with the transfer. Representatives for maritime salvage and intervention state that the cargo is safe within the tanks, as there is no cracking near the cargo tanks. The situation has also not worsened in any way. Officials are still continuing to monitor the weather closely and the transfer will begin as soon as weather permits.