Premier Issues Statement Following Sinking of B.C. Ferry

By 250 News

The Queen of the North   photo courtesy B.C. Ferries

Premier Gordon Campbell is said to be on his way to meet with  rescued passengers and crew of the Queen of the North Ferry, which sank about 135 kilometres south of Prince Rupert Early this morning.  According to B.C. Ferries, all passengers and crew  have been accounted for, and injuries are said to be minor and few.

Here is a direct  copy of the Premier's statement:

“Early this morning, I was informed that the Queen of the North ran aground off Gil Island in Wright Sound and subsequently sank. This was undoubtedly a harrowing experience and I am heartened to learn that all passengers and crew on the Queen of the North were able to get off the ship and be rescued without serious injuries.

“It is a credit to the crew of the vessel, and the safety procedures they have in place, that all passengers were able to be rescued in tremendously challenging conditions. I also credit the prompt response of the Coast Guard who were on scene in a matter of minutes.

“I want to recognize the local residents of Hartley Bay and private vessels who came to the aid of the passengers. Once again, those whose lives depend on the sea and who live in coastal communities have come to the aid of those who need assistance.

“Our immediate attention is directed at the care and comfort of the passengers and crew. The Provincial Emergency Program and Emergency Social Services are already providing support on the ground in Prince Rupert.

“I can assure everyone that extensive reviews will take place with BC Ferries and federal regulators, the Transportation Safety Board and Transport Canada, to find out what happened. I will be travelling to Prince Rupert with the president of BC Ferries, David Hahn, to meet with crew and passengers and offer any support the province can provide.” 

The Ferry is said to have struck a rock and then  tipped to one side before going under.  It is now completely submerged.

At the time of the sinking, there were 101 people on board.  One resident of Prince Rupert  said if  this had been the peak of the tourist season,  there would have been pandemonium, as it would have been near impossible to deal with a full passenger load.  

At this point, hotel rooms in Prince Rupert are being arranged for all who were on board, and councillors will be on hand to help  passengers deal with their shock and emotional trauma. 

The Queen of the North  was purchased in 1969 and underwent a complete refit in 2001.  She can carry 115 vehicles, and 700 people, her top speed is 20 knots.

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