NSW: Ruddock comments annoy Tampa owners=2

AAP General News (Australia)
08-30-2001
NSW: Ruddock comments annoy Tampa owners=2

Mr DEXTER says the company stands by the captain's decision to enter Australian waters.

He says the captain has acted appropriately and in the best interests of everyone.

Mr DEXTER says the vessel isn't certified to carry the number of people currently on
board so the captain is unable to move the ship.

He says even if a deal is negotiated with Indonesia to take the asylum seekers, the
ship still can't move from Australian waters.

Mr DEXTER says the incident is costing the company between $A57,000 and $A66,000 a day.

He says the captain and crew of the ship are still quite stressed, but are performing
professionally under the circumstances.

AAP kp/arb/jas/rp

KEYWORD: BOAT DEXTER 2 SYDNEY

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