Fed: Owners hit back at government claims

AAP General News (Australia)
08-30-2001
Fed: Owners hit back at government claims

The owner of the Norwegian ship Tampa says it will not move out of Australian waters
even if a deal is struck with Indonesia to resolve the plight of up to 460 asylum seekers.

WALLENIUS WILHELMSEN shipping line regional director PETER DEXTER says the Tampa, which
rescued the asylum seekers from their sinking vessel on Sunday, is in no condition to
sail.

He says the vessel is not certified to carry what is now 450 to 460 survivors, and
thus the captain is unable to move the ship.

Mr DEXTER says the vessel is at the moment not seaworthy to carry 450-odd survivors
anywhere, despite the prime minister's request.

Mr DEXTER also says he's annoyed at government comments that the Tampa's captain exaggerated
the medical emergency on board.

Immigration Minister PHILIP RUDDOCK today said Captain ARNE RINNAN had exaggerated
the medical emergency to get into Australian waters.

Mr DEXTER says the stand-off is costing the company up to $A66,000 a day and that conditions
on board are deplorable.

AAP RTV kp/sal/arb/wz/jas

KEYWORD: BOAT OWNER (SYDNEY)

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