Tanker stopped by COVID

PORT HAWKESBURY — A foreign oil tanker which diverted from its route due to possible cases of COVID19 on board is currently anchored off Port Hawkesbury.

According to www.marinetraffic.com, the STI San Telmo, built in 2017, arrived off the Strait-area town on Sunday after a voyage of 13 days, originating from Port of Antwerp, Belgium.

The 183.34-metre-long and 32.2-metre-wide ship was destined for Montreal.

Transport Canada spokesperson Cybelle Morin said they are aware of potential cases of COVID-19 on the STI San Telmo, confirming it is anchored off Port Hawkesbury.

Morin said Transport Canada is closely monitoring the situation and working with the Public Health Agency of Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency, the shipping company and other federal, provincial and local partners to ensure appropriate measures are taken to maintain marine safety and public health.

“Our priority is the safety of Canadians and the members of the crew,” she said. “The vessel is safely anchored. It presents no risks to port personnel or marine safety. The vessel can leave its anchorage only when the Public Health Agency of Canada agrees.”

The federal government has released guidance to the marine industry regarding COVID-19 to manage crew changes, health and safety procedures and reporting, and shore leave that align with international standards.

Morin said Transport Canada is committed to ensuring the safety of marine operations and front-line workers who continue to keep goods moving through Canadian ports and to keep COVID-19 from spreading in Canadian communities.

Crew members on this vessel are taking precautions as required by the Public Health Agency of Canada, she added. Due to privacy considerations, Morin said Transport Canada will not release further details with respect to this ongoing situation.

The Canadian agent for the vessel said they could not comment due to client confidentiality.