A CSL Group Vessel Grounded In The St-Lawrence Seaway

MONTREAL, July 13 /CNW Telbec/ - CSL Group confirms that one of its vessels, the M/V Richelieu grounded in the St-Lawrence Seaway at Cote Ste. Catherine, a few kilometers south-west of Montreal.

An undetermined quantity of fuel oil leaked, however the majority of the 200 tons of fuel oil the vessel was carrying remains in the tank. Clean up efforts are underway by ECRC, environmental specialists, and all governmental authorities are in attendance.

The vessel, a 28595 DWT bulk carrier carrying 25,000 metric tons of wheat, experienced propulsion problems while outbound on the St. Lawrence Seaway near Ste Catherine at 7:30 pm Monday July 12. As per standard emergency procedures, the vessel dropped anchors to regain control. Unfortunately a sudden squall caused the vessel to shift position and possibly strike one of the anchors causing a puncture in one of its fuel tanks.

The resulting water ingress pressurized the tank, venting fuel onto the main deck. Due to the high winds and rain experienced at the time, the spill could not be contained. Divers have inspected the damage and it has been confirmed that there is no leakage from the fuel tank.

The crew and shore side management immediately implemented the vessel's emergency response plan and notified all relevant authorities. The vessel is now at a safe berth, containment booms have been deployed.

The management of the CSL Group will hold a press briefing at 3:00 pm today, at their Montreal offices, located at 759 Square Victoria.

For further information: Roch Landriault, National Public Relations, [phone]; Source: CSL Group