(Gatineau, Quebec, 10 May 2005) - The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) releases its final report (M02C0064) today into a collision on the St. Lawrence Seaway between the Dutch heavy lift ship Stellanova and the Canadian bulk carrier Canadian Prospector. At approximately 7 p.m. on 12 October 2002, the Stellanova was travelling west through the South Shore Canal on the St. Lawrence Seaway near Montréal, Quebec, while the Canadian Prospector was entering the South Shore Canal eastbound for Port-Cartier, Quebec. The Stellanova was on the south side of the channel. The pilot aboard the Stellanova called the Canadian Prospector and arranged a starboard-to-starboard passing. The Stellanova was manoeuvred in order to keep it on the south side of the channel, but it sheered towards the centre of the channel and the ships collided. Both vessels sustained significant damage. The Stellanova struck the bank, causing minor pollution, which was eventually brought under control by St. Lawrence Seaway authorities. One member of the Stellanova crew received minor injuries as a result of the impact. In its investigation, the TSB found that, although mariners and pilots were trained in managing their bridge personnel, the principles learned were not fully put into practice. The investigation also found that the Stellanova sheered towards the south side of the South Shore Canal possibly due to a reduction in thrust, to the propeller control lever design, and to the visibility from the bridge. As well, the pilot had not received hands-on training on similar vessels or on simulators re-enacting emergency situations. The TSB is an independent agency that investigates marine, pipeline, railway and aviation transportation occurrences. Its sole aim is the advancement of transportation safety. It is not the function of the Board to assign fault or determine civil or criminal liability. - 30 - For further information: John Cottreau Senior Media Relations Advisor Telephone: (819) 994-8053
