The total cost to my Department arising from the rescue operation of the Tribulus is currently being assessed. I intend to seek reimbursement from Shell Tankers (UK) Limited, the owners of the vessel, of the full cost to my Department of the incident.
A diving survey of the damaged vessel revealed a hole measuring 21 metres long by 10 metres deep. Steel girders were fabricated, lowered into the water and fixed vertically at the hole. Steel plates were fabricated and put in place to patch up the hole. All water was pumped from the hold of the vessel. Additional strengthening was carried out inside the hold. An inspection was carried out on Saturday, 5 May by a surveyor of my Department to ensure that vessel's safety and integrity. The vessel departed Bantry Bay the next day and has now berthed in Rotterdam where it will be put into dry dock.
I am satisfied with the outcome of this incident. The pollution operations group under my Department were successful in minimising the pollution threat and Shell Tankers (UK) Limited co-operated fully with my Department in discharging their responsibilities.