Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

Asgard II sank off the French coast in the Bay of Biscay on 11 September 2008. In general, in the case of sinkings, it is imperative that salvage operations begin immediately, subject only to weather conditions, to ensure that as little damage as possible occurs due to sea conditions and, more particularly, the corrosive effects of salt water. However, in this instance this did not happen. It is unfortunate that the Minister is not in the House this evening, but I think that from the very beginning a decision was made that the Asgard would not be salvaged.

Allianz insurers invited three salvage companies to submit quotations for raising the vessel from the sea floor and set a deadline of 17 October for the receipt of offers. I understand that at the request of one of the salvage companies, this deadline was extended by two weeks to 31 October, during which period a suitable weather window for the salvage operation presented itself. In salvage operations suitable weather windows are essential but, unfortunately, they do not present themselves to order. The time estimated for the salvage operation is approximately four weeks, which includes mobilisation and demobilisation for placing, de-rigging and removal of lifting equipment on and off the site. This opportunity was not taken, however, and it is my opinion that a decision was made very early on that the whole operation would not start immediately.

Many people are very disappointed with the Minister's decision as well as with his prevarication and procrastination. He accused me in the House of trying to exaggerate the position and being disingenuous when I said the matter was urgent. It is obvious that I was right, however. The master of the Asgard, Captain Colm Newport, told The Irish Times yesterday that he was very disappointed with the Minister's decision. He said he was still in discussions with a Dutch company about its salvage. He has questioned the competence of the advice given to the Minister, Deputy O'Dea, on the difficulties of raising the hull. If the master of the ship, Captain Newport, who is a highly respected individual, said that, it raises major doubts about the advice the Minister received as well as the Minister's judgment.

Captain Newport says the vessel can be raised and treated pending its full restoration. He believes the State has an obligation to remove the ship from French waters. We had the same response from the Asgard's crew who sent a letter to all of us saying they were so distressed by this decision. The Minister is not here but perhaps my remarks can be conveyed to him. He should at least present us with the report on why the ship was not raised. Deputy Coveney will no doubt mention a proposal he presented to the Minister, but the Minister did not even consult us about it.

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