“Russia’s floating mega bomb sparks panic in UK waters!”
This unfortunately was one of many sensationalist headlines in the UK Press over the last few weeks relating to the plight of the MV Ruby, a ship anchored just off Margate outside UK territorial waters.
Running out of food and water. Desperate crew. Feeling abandoned.
In steps Deacon John Fogarty, Kent Regional Port Chaplain and other staff from Stella Maris. Many phone calls to the owner, P&I company, agent, port authorities and chandlers. Everyone trying, but getting nowhere. Too many reporting inaccuracies driving inaction:
– ‘It’s Russian’ – no it’s not, it’s Maltese flagged and Dubai owned.
– ‘It’s a ticking bomb’ – no it’s not – it’s ammonium nitrate (fertiliser) stored safely and inert.
– ‘It’s another Beirut’ – no it’s not – that was a lethal combination of fireworks and poorly stored ammonium nitrate.
– ‘They’re Russian crew’ – no they’re not – they’re 1 x Swede, 1 x Ukrainian and 17 x Syrians.
So what if they were Russian? Seafarers – people – running out of supplies and hope.
Eventually food was delivered and the ship’s water maker repaired. Did John and the team influence change? Maybe. But a very grateful Master and crew, and here’s his message to John:
“In the midst of talking to my employers and agencies, and in a state of serious stress, I had forgotten the human touch and within that, agencies like you, Stella Maris. I will never forget you now. I have called my first officer and ordered him to prepare a little celebration tomorrow when we receive our provisions in order to lift the mood on board. I will call you then. 1000 thank yous from me and from all of my crew.”
People caring about seafarers – that’s what makes Stella Maris and other maritime charities great.
