Update from Deputy Chief Minister on L’Ecume II

28 December 2022

The Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Deputy Kirsten Morel, said:

“In the 20 days since the tragic collision, the search and recovery operation for L’Ecume II and her crew has been extensive. My heartfelt thanks go to everyone involved in this round the clock operation.

“The L’Ecume II’s wreckage and surrounding seabed have been extensively searched by MV Freja using specialist equipment. On Wednesday 14 December, the bodies of Jervis Ramirez Baligat and Larry Simyunn were brought ashore. Since then every area of the vessel has been searched but very sadly Mick Michieli has not been found.

“With the conclusion of the MV Freja’s work, we have reached the conclusion of this part of the search and recovery operation and it is now time to assess the next steps.

“Our thoughts remain with everyone affected, particularly with the families of the three crew, who will remain fully supported and informed throughout the coming stages.”

An exclusion zone remains around the site, and two areas of work continue:

An independent investigation will be led by the States of Jersey Police, supported by UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency Enforcement Team. Based upon this investigation, the Attorney General will determine whether any criminal charges should be brought. Given the resource pressures put upon the SOJP by the Haut du Mont disaster, additional resource is being sought. A senior investigator will be appointed shortly.
The maritime safety investigation, which was commissioned immediately after the incident to determine the facts and what lessons can be learned, continues. It is being progressed by Maritime Standards, part of Ports of Jersey, in conjunction with the Bahamas Maritime Authority (as the Commodore Goodwill’s flag state), and the Philippines as an interested party.

Deputy Morel said: “My priorities are ensuring that the families and communities continue to be supported, the facts are established and any necessary action taken, to ensure an incident like this does not happen again.”