Ship runs aground in Saint Lawrence Seaway near Chateauguay

12/17/2015

The Emergency Preparedness and Planning Department (EPP) of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke is informing the community that a ship ran aground in the Saint Lawrence Seaway this morning, not far from St. Nicholas Island near Chateauguay.

The ship, The BBC Maple Lea, is carrying scrap metal and currently poses little or no risk at this time.



The ship’s front bow thruster hydraulic system was damaged after running aground and is currently leaking hydraulic oil in droplet quantities. However, Environment Canada has assessed the situation as little to no risk. Regardless, an emergency response company, SIMEC, is on-site and have deployed preliminary and secondary booms to catch any contaminants.

The Canadian Coast Guard will deploy a helicopter tomorrow to monitor the area while the ship is being moved.

"Any breach from a ship is concerning,” said General Manager of Emergency Preparedness and Planning, Kellyann Meloche. "Although, we’re relieved it’s only drops of hydraulic fluid, we’re still taking the necessary precautions to ensure there is no contamination to our water or waterways."

The EPP is investigating the situation and will keep the community informed of any major updates.