As work continues to deal with the environmental aftermath of the recent accident on the Tyne, I thought it would be useful to provide a further update.
Firstly, I would like to put on record once again my thanks to all those local volunteers who continue to work tirelessly to clear our beaches and river. It’s impressive how quickly our local community stepped up to the mark and I’d like to thank local Tynemouth Councillor Tynemouth.News from Tom and the local Labour & Coop TeamTom Bailey and others for their work in coordinating the volunteer response.
What is clear from the Port of Tyne is that a number of factors influenced the speed of response. There were other containers that needed to be secured and which may have posed an even bigger risk. Port of Tyne released a more detailed update on 4th August which is well worth a read: https://www.portoftyne.co.uk/…/incident-response…
I have been in regular contact with local agencies involved with the spill including the Port of Tyne, the Environment Agency and North Tyneside Council as well as at a national level, speaking to the Environment Secretary, Dame Angela Eagle and Marine Minister Stephen Morgan, who recently visited the area to see the impact first hand.
I have expressed concern about the immediate clean-up but also the long-term harm it may cause to marine wildlife. I have made the case for a long-term approach beyond the immediate clean up not least because the impact on sea birds and marine animals may take time to emerge. I have also asked the MMO to assess the possible impact on the livelihood on those who make a living from the sea.
The cause and liability for the spill will be dealt with through the courts, after a full investigation takes place. I know and understand that this will take time but I stressed to everyone involved the urgency of getting on with the clean-up and if necessary, the government to be prepared to step in to help. But let me be clear. The cost should not fall on council tax or other taxpayers – the polluter must take responsibility.
I expect there will be an inquiry, probably more than one, into the response to this situation. That includes who actually takes the lead when something like this occurs, a question I have raised with Ministers.
The Port of Tyne has the responsibility of the clean-up of the river and estuary and they are working around the clock to mitigate the impact of the incident – using specialised equipment to stabilise the site of the spill. Local authorities are responsible for the beach clean-up and have engaged contractors who specialise in clean-ups of this type and other pollution incidents.
Thank you again to all those who are helping to stem the spill and working to clear our coastline, especially all the fantastic volunteers. I will continue to monitor the situation and share developments with my constituents.