Faroese fleet unsafe as both patrol vessels remain out of service

The Faroese fleet is not sufficiently safe without a functioning patrol vessel, the chairmen of the Faroese Fishing Association and the Faroese Marine Engineers Association told broadcaster KVF.

The fleet has two patrol vessels, but both are currently out of service. The 50-year-old Tjaldrið is undergoing repairs after suffering engine trouble, while Brimil has also been sent for repairs.

“It is unacceptable that we do not have an adequate patrol vessel in the fleet,” said Jan Højgaard, chairman of the Faroese Fishing Association.

Arnfinn Bech, chairman of the Faroese Marine Engineers Association, said the situation should not have occurred.

“Year after year, the political system has been told that the vessels are old and worn out and need to be replaced, but nothing has happened,” he said.

Højgaard warned that the lack of a functioning vessel could have serious consequences, even in the middle of summer.

“It can take seconds for a vessel to sink if a dangerous situation arises,” he said.

According to Bárður á Steig Nielsen, the minister responsible, the authorities could in the worst case rely on Jákup Sverri, the Faroese Marine Research Institute’s vessel, or ships from the Danish defence.

Højgaard said that was not a permanent solution and was inadequate for people working at sea.

Both association chairmen said a new vessel must be built and made a priority in the next national budget. Højgaard said it was a disgrace for the Faroese not to have a functioning patrol vessel.