Vol. 562 No. 4
168 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the total cost incurred by the State of the removal of oil from the Panamanian registered tanker, the Princess Eva; if it is intended to recover the cost of the operation from the owners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6260/03]
The vessel, Princess Eva, was detained by inspectors of the maritime safety directorate of my Department off Killybegs harbour on 30 January because cracks found on the deck plating of the ship rendered the vessel unseaworthy.
The tanker was carrying a cargo of 53,400 tonnes of gas oil. To repair the vessel it was necessary to remove the cargo, and this operation has been completed. These operations took place under the control of the coastguard.
Temporary repairs are being carried out on the vessel and are expected to be completed within the next few days. The tanker will then be moved to dry dock where permanent repairs will be undertaken.
In relation to costs, my Department pursues "the polluter pays" principle. The coastguard estimates that the cost of their services to date is in the region of €190,000 and the ship's owners will be pursued for these costs.
