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08/09/2015
MoD Admits Submarine Was Responsible For Fishing Trawler Incident
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has admitted one of its submarines was responsible for dragging a fishing trawler through the Irish Sea.
The incident happened 16 miles off the Co Down coast on 15 April, when the Ardglass-based prawn trawler Karen B317 was dragged backwards before the crew were able to release the nets.
At the time, the British MoD denied having any of its submarines within 150 miles of the incident.
Agriculture Minister Michelle O'Neill said she is "appalled and astonished" at the actions of the MoD.
She said: "Firstly, a British Royal Navy submarine put trawlermen's lives at risk when it snagged the nets of the Karen Band then dragged it and its four-man crew through the water.
"Safety at sea is paramount for the fishing industry and our fishermen should never be exposed to the type of danger faced by the crew of the Karen. I wrote to the British Secretary of State insisting this matter was raised with the MoD and that an investigation was carried out.
"Secondly, why does it take the MoD almost five months to come clean and admit what it has done? In the days after the incident, I visited Ardglass to meet with the owner Simon Wills and I heard first hand from Skipper Paul Murphy of the frightening moment he and his crew feared for their lives. I also saw for myself the damage to the boat and the profound impact the incident had on those affected.
"It is inexcusable to put lives at risk in this fashion and not to admit responsibility immediately afterwards. There are clear guidelines that must be followed at all times. However, in the case of the Karen, those guidelines have been flouted."
Minister O'Neill has called on the MoD to identify the individuals responsible for the incident and to explain why denials were issued.
(CD/JP)
The incident happened 16 miles off the Co Down coast on 15 April, when the Ardglass-based prawn trawler Karen B317 was dragged backwards before the crew were able to release the nets.
At the time, the British MoD denied having any of its submarines within 150 miles of the incident.
Agriculture Minister Michelle O'Neill said she is "appalled and astonished" at the actions of the MoD.
She said: "Firstly, a British Royal Navy submarine put trawlermen's lives at risk when it snagged the nets of the Karen Band then dragged it and its four-man crew through the water.
"Safety at sea is paramount for the fishing industry and our fishermen should never be exposed to the type of danger faced by the crew of the Karen. I wrote to the British Secretary of State insisting this matter was raised with the MoD and that an investigation was carried out.
"Secondly, why does it take the MoD almost five months to come clean and admit what it has done? In the days after the incident, I visited Ardglass to meet with the owner Simon Wills and I heard first hand from Skipper Paul Murphy of the frightening moment he and his crew feared for their lives. I also saw for myself the damage to the boat and the profound impact the incident had on those affected.
"It is inexcusable to put lives at risk in this fashion and not to admit responsibility immediately afterwards. There are clear guidelines that must be followed at all times. However, in the case of the Karen, those guidelines have been flouted."
Minister O'Neill has called on the MoD to identify the individuals responsible for the incident and to explain why denials were issued.
(CD/JP)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
