Seventh update

•Our priority is the safety of Canadians and the protection of the marine environment; by helping to prevent the release of pollution into the environment and mitigating the potential hazards posed by this vessel.

•Canadian Coast Guard crews continue to assess the MSC Baltic III from the shoreline and by air. No pollution has been observed.

•CCG maintains a high level of preparedness to respond to any potential hazards or pollutants entering the marine environment, and the CCGS Jean Goodwill remains on scene with spill response equipment onboard and is providing assistance as required.

•Sea conditions continue to hamper some on the water operations.

•There are discussions ongoing about the possible development of a road to allow easier access to the vessel. If implemented, this would also help alleviate the impact sea conditions have on removal operations.

•The manifest provided by the owner of the MSC Baltic III, indicates that the cargo contains some materials listed as dangerous goods. These includes things such as fabrics, food products, metals and polymeric beads.

•The salvage team is continuing their assessment of the MSC Baltic III, as sea conditions allow, and are developing the salvage plan.

•Given the vessel’s current condition, it cannot be safely refloated. The initial focus will be on the removal of the fuel and cargo.

•We appreciate the continued understanding and cooperation from the public in support of a safe, effective and efficient response to this incident.

Further updates will be provided as they are available and as the situation evolves.

Sixth update

•Canadian Coast Guard crews continue to assess the MSC Baltic III from the shoreline and by air. No pollution has been observed.

•An assessment of the hull confirmed significant breaches or holes are present. The vessel appears to have settled firmly on the seabed, and is stable at this time.

•Tank soundings have confirmed approximately 1.7 million litres of heavy fuel and marine gas oil onboard the vessel. No pollution has been observed.

•The CCGS Jean Goodwill remains on scene with spill response equipment onboard and is providing assistance as required.

•Sea conditions hampered some operations over the weekend including the ability to safely access the vessel.

•The salvage team is continuing their assessment of the MSC Baltic III as sea conditions allow. It includes further tank soundings and inspections of cargo holds.

Further updates will be provided as they are available and as the situation evolves.

Canadian Coast Guard press release