Ascard II is no more! Decision is not to lift vessel from seabed.

RTE NEWS Monday, 23 February 2009

The Asgard II, which sank last September off the coast of France, will not be lifted from the seabed.

Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea has announced that he has accepted the recommendation of the Asgard Committee, Coiste an Asgard, to leave the ship where it is.

Minister O'Dea said that there was a risk that €2m could be spent on a salvage effort and maintenance that might be wasted

The Minister's statement reveals that Coiste an Asgard feared parents would not let their children sail on a vessel that had already sunk once.

The founder of a campaign to raise the vessel, Gerry Burns, has described the Government's decision as a national disgrace.

Speaking on RTÉ Radio, Mr Burns, who is a former Master of the Asgard II, said the ship was a national treasure and it was a sad day for those who wanted her raised and restored.

Labour Party spokesperson on the marine Senator Michael McCarthy has described the decision as "the ultimate hypocrisy,"

The 30-year-old vessel has represented the nation around the world at tall ships' races.Thousands of people signed a petition to save her.

Further information can be found at - http://www.asgard2.ie/