Rescue mission continues as Coastguard explains why tug turned back
(Picture: Craig Taylor)
While lifeboats from Kirkwall and Longhope are involved in a rescue mission to tow in a disabled fishing boat east of Orkney, in an operation in poor weather which began earlier this morning, the Maritime Coastguard Agency have – when asked by The Orcadian – issued a statement on why the Coastguard chartered tug turned away from the vessel earlier today.
The statement said: “UK Coastguard was advised at approximately 7.00 am today that the fishing vessel Sunrise had fouled its propeller and was in need of assistance. Although the weather on scene is challenging, all on board are safe and well.
The statement went on to say: “The Kirkwall RNLI lifeboat was tasked to assist, along with Longhope RNLI lifeboat. The Coastguard Emergency Towing Vessel (ETV), the Ievoli Black , was also requested to make its way to the scene. However, as the fishing vessel is not in distress and there is no risk to life or environment at this time, the operational decision was made to rebalance resources and release the ETV, to ensure it remained available for potential life-saving operations given the deteriorating weather.”
Earlier today, the tug, which was alongside Hatston Pier, having recently returned from patrol, left the berth and headed towards the fishing boat, but turned back shortly afterwards, while in a position roughly south of Auskerry.
The situation has seen anger and disbelief in some quarters of the Orkney seafaring community, with many failing to understand why the tug did not tow the vessel in, especially given the poor weather conditions and heavy seas.
Further updates to follow.