A specialist contractor is scheduled to arrive in Carrick-on-Shannon early next week to manage oil spills and deposits in the Shannon River. These spills resulted from the sinking of two cruisers after a fire at the jetty earlier this week.
The blaze broke out on the vessels last Tuesday night, with emergency services notified at 9:25 p.m. The fire service arrived promptly by 9:30 p.m. One local witness chose not to stay near the site, fearing potential explosions due to gas tanks and fuel onboard the cruisers.
The fire completely engulfed both cruisers. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby boats. By midnight, the fire was under control, but both vessels had sunk due to extensive damage.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and it is believed no one was aboard either cruiser during the fire. The scene was preserved for a technical investigation, with Gardaí continuing inquiries to determine the fire’s cause.
The cruisers’ owners are responsible for ensuring the safe removal of both vessels from the site.
“We are managing the oil spill that has arisen at the marina in Carrick-on-Shannon as a result of the recent fire on cruiser boats.” – Leitrim County Council
The boardwalk remains closed during the clean-up efforts to protect the environment and public safety.
Author's summary: A specialist team is set to tackle oil contamination in the Shannon River caused by a fire that sank two cruisers in Carrick-on-Shannon, with safety and environmental measures ongoing.