MOL clarify and update progress on car carriers

The reported 600 bugs found by the crew included all insects and not specifically BMSB and YSSB, as MOL’s crew are not trained in insect identification. The period that the 600 insects were discovered was between 14th of February and the 26th of February (13-day period) through daily monitoring by the crew of Glovis Caravel. The summary of finding was then reported to the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) on the 27th of February at the request of the MPI. During this period MOL voluntarily did not berth the Glovis Caravel until an agreed treatment plan was put in place with treatment providers and the MPI. Consequently, the vessel has not been fogged as with other BMSB affected vessels. As per previous notices sent out by MOL, it was always MOL’s intention to begin fogging operations on the vessel to eliminate known BMSB and YSSB prior to berthing the vessel. The vessel fully complied with the MPI’s requirements and on the 27th February the vessel was instructed to leave NZ waters.  To comply with MPI’s latest direction, the Glovis Caravel is still undergoing fogging operations which now are being done outside NZ waters.  MOL emphasise that they have put the safety of the New Zealand economy first, and have complied and changed plans accordingly. Once the Glovis Caravel has been fogged, further inspection by the crew will be carried out to assess the risk of BMSB and YSSB. MOL will also continue to advise MPI of all findings and the planned treatment of the vessel. Courageous Ace update The Courageous Ace has completed the fogging procedures off Australia and is now sailing for New Zealand. MOL will now work with MPI for approval to enter New Zealand waters. The crew of the Courageous Ace will continue to monitor and assess the status or risk of BMSB and YSSB, which will be shared with the MPI. Berthing of the vessel is subject to the procedures put in place by the MPI.