|
It was carrying 4,000 tonnes
of styrene, which is insoluble in water, highly toxic and highly
corrosive. The vessel is also carrying two 1,000 tonne cargos of two less
toxic chemicals.
Styrene is a known marine
pollutant, and could have a serious impact on sea life.
| The 14 crew on board
were winched to safety by helicopter yesterday after the vessel
got into trouble in the gale-force winds that had hit northern
France and southern England throughout the day.
The Ievoli Sun, which is owned by
the Naples-based shipping company Marnavi, signalled overnight on
Sunday that it was taking on water in rough seas. |
|
It reported a hole in its double hull in heavy weather on
Monday and radioed for help.
A French tug monitored the tanker throughout the day and
managed to attach a line, but it sunk as it was being towed towards the
French coast.
The UK Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food is
monitoring the situation.
Falmouth coastguard watch manager Mick Quinn said:
"We have a chemical strike team ready." |
