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Government wants to move ahead with the disposal of the Solway Harvester

Tue, 12 Jun 2012

The government wants to begin taking steps to dispose of the wreck of the Solway Harvester.

The scallop dredger sank off the coast of the Island over 12 years ago, with the loss of the seven crew onboard.

The rusting reminder of the tragedy has sat in public view in Douglas Harbour for a number of years.

This is because a commitment was made to the families that it would be kept until it’s no longer needed for legal proceedings.

In the House of Keys today, the Infrastructure Minister said given the increasing concern about the trawler and the potential risk it poses – his department wants to begin the disposal process as soon as it’s practical.

However, David Cretney says the last piece of legal advice they had was a year ago.

It said the vessel was still needed until it’s known whether there is going to be a settlement.

Mr Cretney says his department has made it clear that it believes it’s now time to move on.

 

 

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