Clyde Coastguard are currently monitoring the progress of the 73 metre Russian fish factory stern trawler "Aquamarine" which was heading for Killybegs after initially being taken under tow by another Russian fishing vessel the 93 metre "Mikhail Borodin" yesterday afternoon.
The tow was dropped and the vessel is now drifting in poor weather about 240 miles north of Killybegs.
The "Aquamarine" is disabled after its propellers became jammed on an underwater obstruction whilst the crew were hauling its nets.
Calum Murray, Watch Manager at Clyde Coastguard said "There are westerly gales in the area with the vessel drifting at 2 knots in seas of between 3 and 4 metres. Via an interpreter we understand that there are 39 people on board the "Aquamarine" and all seem safe. The "Mikhail Boronin" will remain within 3nm of the "Aquamarine" and will keep the vessel within sight and on radar. We have asked them to report to us regularly about conditions on board whilst a plan is put together for its tow and eventual destination. The vessels owners in Murmansk are aware."
