Flotta demonstration scheduled ahead of tanker visit
A group protesting the entry of a Russian tanker into Scapa Flow is to travel to Flotta tomorrow, ahead of the scheduled arrival of NS Champion at the island’s oil terminal.
This comes amid continued debate on whether UK sanctions against Russia should apply in the case of this vessel, operated by Sovcomflot — a majority state-owned shipping company.
It is understood that talks between the UK and Scottish Governments are ongoing regarding NS Champion, which is scheduled to arrive in Flotta on Tuesday evening.
A contingent of Orcadians protesting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the arrival of the vessel, are due to head out to Flotta tomorrow afternoon, to host a vigil. According to organisers, this will be a peaceful event outside the gate of the oil terminal, demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine, with placards and banners encouraged.
With some questioning why Orkney Islands Council (OIC) cannot simply prevent the tanker’s access to the Flow, by denying use of its tug boats, the authority has said that it is “doing everything legally in [its] power” to avert the situation.
In a statement released this Monday morning, an OIC spokeswoman said: “Over the weekend, we have been working tirelessly to try and find a solution to the issue of the visiting tanker — in order to support the strength of feeling that is running not only in our community, but throughout our organisation too.
“We’re doing everything that is legally in our power to avert this situation — no stone is being left unturned.
“It’s a very complex, fast-moving situation and there are many unanswered questions. We expect to receive more information from UK / Scottish Governments today — and will update you in due course.”
The UK Government has confirmed that discussions are under way in relation to concerns over the vessel.
A spokesman said: “We are aware of concerns about Russian-connected ships potentially docking in the UK and we are working rapidly to explore a range of measures to restrict access for them.
“We are already discussing this issue with the Scottish Government and the sanctions being considered are part of a wider package being worked up across the UK Government.”