An unforeseen mechanical issue and deteriorating weather conditions have delayed the recovery phase of the SAR operation to locate the F.V. Jubilee and her crew this morning (19 October 2015).
Inspector Craig McKay says that unfortunately the Blue Arrow suffered mechanical problems as it travelled to site this morning and has had to return to Akaroa. “While the weather forecast for today is better than the conditions yesterday, it is predicted to deteriorate tomorrow. The wind had dropped today but there was still significant swell of 2-3m in open water just offshore from Akaroa.”
“Canterbury Police SAR and members of the NZ Police Dive Squad have assessed the conditions and unfortunately there are no other suitable vessels in the area that could take the dive team and their radial sonar onto site before nightfall and the arrival of a predicted weather change later this afternoon. The safety of those involved in the recovery phase is paramount and the deteriorating forecast for the next three days is for variable winds and big swells which would be too dangerous to deploy equipment or divers.”
“Police are currently looking at other options to progress the recovery phase. It is too early in this process to confirm when this may occur and what form it will take” explains Inspector McKay.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has opened an inquiry into the sinking of the F.V. Jubilee.
“Police are working with the families of those thought to have been on board the F.V Jubilee and her owner. Due to the stage of the recovery phase and sensitive nature of this incident no information about the crew or their identities will be released at this time” says Inspector McKay.
Media note: If you wish to have this release verbalised on the phone or on-camera please text Canterbury District Communications Manager on 021 942 404 and a time will be allocated to you. Any on-camera interviews will be made outside Christchurch Central Police Station.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police