Politicians are urged: ‘Be as strong as Tarbert’

POLITICIANS must put aside party politics and be guided by ‘human decency’ as the bid to raise the Nancy Glen intensifies.

The call came from Clyde Fishermen’s Association chairman Kenny MacNab as he confirmed that quotes had been received to raise the fishing boat from the bottom of Loch Fyne.

On the evening of January 18, the 40foot vessel Nancy Glen TT100 was fishing prawns on the loch not far from her home port of Tarbert when she capsized and sank – despite intense efforts to save her.

One crewman was rescued but skipper Duncan MacDougall and crewman Przemek Krawczyk are believed to have gone down with the boat.

Effort

The Clyde Fishermen’s Association is spearheading a move to raise the wreck from its position 140 metres under the surface – with a huge commu- nity fundraising effort backing the campaign.

Investigations into the tragedy are continuing by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch and underwater surveys are planned but the UK government agency has said it does not intend to raise the vessel.

Kenny MacNab said: ‘This doesn’t mean it will not happen.’

Politicians on all sides in Holyrood and Westminster are being urged to lend support to the campaign to raise the Nancy Glen and Mr MacNab added: ‘I would just say to all politicians, regardless of party, look to your humanitarian side and adopt some compassion.’

He continued: ‘We have had contractors interested in lifting the Nancy Glen giving fairly reasonable quotes.

‘For the moment they have to remain confidential as we are waiting for others to get in touch.

‘Our efforts to get funding from governments to return our shipmates carries on and we will never give up. So it’s up to all the politicians to make it happen.’

The community spirit shown by resdients of the Tarbert and its surrounding areas for the affected families has been immense. The fundraising campaign was boosted on January 27 by a single coffee afternoon which raised £13,000 – just one fundraiser among scores around the region. Online funds meanwhile total £175,000 and rising.

Mr MacNab praised the efforts of people near and far.

‘Yet again I have to thank the community of Tarbert and now the worldwide community for your support raising money and offers of help and comfort to the families,’ he said.

‘It is greatly appreciated. Let’s hope our politicians and governments, north and south of the border, are as strong as you are.’