AG heeds reaching decision on moving “MT New Diamond” out of SL waters

The focus of Attorney General Dappula de Livera has fell on the urgent need to reach a decision to move the crude oil tanker “MT New Diamond”, which caught on fire several days ago, out of Sri Lankan waters.

The matter was brought up during a discussion on the legal action to be taken on the oil tanker under the Marine Pollution Prevention Act, No. 35 of 2008, chaired by the Attorney General today (08).

The talks were also represented by the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA).

The AG’s Coordinating Officer State Counsel Nishara Jayaratne stated the steps that have already been taken by the MEPA and mmediate steps to be taken to contain the fire.

She added that the MEPA has informed the owner of the vessel of the need to move it away from Sri Lanka waters.

However, vessel owner is yet to respond to the matter, the MEPA chairperson has told the Attorney General.

Taking this into account, the Attorney General has stressed the need to move the oil tanker away from Sri Lankan waters, State Counsel Nishara Jayaratne said further.