Press Releases - MARAD

STATEMENT ON THE UNITED KINGDOM’S DECISION TO PERMIT THE SAFE DOCKING OF THE CANOPUS AND COMPASS ISLAND
15/11/03

The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) appreciates the decision made by the United Kingdom’s Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to permit the second pair of ships to dock at the AbleUK facility in Teesside, England for safekeeping over the winter. This action offers a responsible solution that fully addresses the safety and environmental concerns associated with an Atlantic tow at this time of year.

The U.K. Environment Agency (EA) has placed requirements on the ships to ensure the environment is fully protected and, as owners of the ships, MARAD will work with the EA and with AbleUK to ensure that these requirements are met.

The Maritime Administration remains committed to the AbleUK contract, and will be working with the government of the United Kingdom to identify means by which that contract can be carried out consistent with all legal and environmental safety requirements.

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