Transport Canada says English Bay oil spill came from M/V Marathassa

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      There was virtually no one walking along the sand this morning at English Bay when I dropped by around 7:15 a.m.

      Not a single dog could be seen anywhere, not even along the sidewalk ringing one of Vancouver's most popular beaches.

      But there were park-board staff on hand as well as a TV news crews that was drawn to the area by an oil spill on Wednesday afternoon.

      The Coast Guard didn't inform the City of Vancouver about the spill until around 6 a.m. Thursday.

      The public has been urged to avoid going into the water.

      Charlie Smith

      The scent of fuel was still in the air this morning as I noticed black-stained rock was perched on top of another, likely to highlight what had occurred earlier this week.

      Meanwhile, CBC News has reported that shoreline crews are cleaning up Sandy Cove in West Vancouver, as well as areas around Stanley Park.

      The Cyprus-flagged M/V Marathassa was the source of 2,700 litres of oil, according to Transport Canada. The Panamax vessel was built this year, according to Athens-based Alassia NewShips Management Inc.

      People who see evidence of an oil slick on the water are urged to call 604-873-7000.

      Comments

      2 Comments

      Bcsailor

      Apr 12, 2015 at 12:55pm

      Who, exactly, are the beneficial owners of the MV Marathassa?
      If the spill had happening during a westerly storm, none of the Burrard Clean "oil response/clean-up " vessels would have been able to work in English Bay, at all. All of the bunker would have been blown ashore. "World Class oil response"? NOT!
      International agreements limit the amount of damages, from an oil spill, to less than the value of the ship.
      Coast Gaurd claims to have recovered 80%, but the amount/volume they say remains, does not equal 20% of what they say was spilled. The bullshit level is awesome!

      Jim Cowan

      Apr 12, 2015 at 4:01pm

      Shame on Mr. Harper and his government! Take some ownership for the problem, and stop hiding behind our Coast Guard personnel.