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Displaying items by tag: dredger refloated

Since a dramatic rescue in Drogheda Port with the re-floating of the hopper-dredger Hebble Sand from sinking in the River Boyne recently, no repairs have been carried out, writes the Drogheda Independent.

In addition there is no indication given as to when the almost 60 year-old dredger will be moved.

Fergus O’Dowd, the local T.D. has received correspondence from Louth County Council's environmental department, who have been overseeing developments in the process.

“What I have been told is, to date, no repairs have been made to the boat. They are currently monitoring the level of water in the boat to make sure the boat stays afloat and upright,” said Deputy O’Dowd.

“Tanks and pumps are due down during the week to remove diesel fuel from the vessel fuel tank and empty bilges. The contractor was on-site yesterday to make an initial assessment of equipment required. Once this is removed the repairs will be carried out with the aid of divers to make the vessel safe”.

The installation of double booms at the river berth still remain in place to contain residual diesel.

For more on the operation (click here) on the dredger that Afloat adds was built in 1963 to originally serve UK ports. 

 

Published in Drogheda Port

About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.