We came across an interesting article in Sunday Herald and also expanded on at the Ferret. It concerned a plea from an independent Shetland Councillor on behalf of coastal communities for a multi-million pound compensation fund for environmental damage from oil spills. Topical.
The Ferret quoted the councillor concerned as saying:
“Victims of marine oil pollution often have to wait years for compensation and then may only receive less than two thirds of what they are due. Compensation for environmental damage is even harder to get. The IOPCF have the money but the rules on applying for environmental damage compensation are very strict and complicated. So in practice such payments are hardly ever made.”
Interesting if you have a business that relies on the Inner Moray Firth ecosystem or one bordering the Firth. Doesn’t sound to hopeful – lets hope those flag of convenience crude oil tankers coming in to undertake ship to ship transfers don’t have any accidents. Now that could never happen – could it? If you haven’t read it already – read Steve Monk’s story and what happened to him following the Sea Empress disaster in Wales.
