In the wake of the tragedy at Cape Greco, the government is implementing new measures to ensure safety at sea, particularly during hazardous weather conditions.
“Specifically, a decision will be issued by the Council of Ministers—I hope tomorrow—that will prohibit ships from setting sail based on weather conditions and the size and displacement of the vessels. This will help ensure that everyone understands there will be consequences for those who violate this decision. It will remain in effect until the Coast Guard bill is passed.” Konstantinos Fytiris, Minister of Justice
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The decision was made following a morning meeting at the National Security Council (K.S.E.D.), attended by the Minister of Agriculture, the Deputy Minister of Shipping, and other relevant authorities.
The decision was prompted by last Saturday’s tragic incident at Cape Greco, when Dimitris Mavropoulos lost his life after becoming trapped in the wreckage of his boat amid rough seas.
Following the meeting, the Minister of Justice stated that specific decisions had been made, which will be presented to the Cabinet.
“These include monitoring the enforcement of the decree, which will be carried out by the Coast Guard, the Police, and the Police Helicopter Squadron, so that, promptly after the Meteorological Service issues a warning about adverse weather conditions, coastal areas can be inspected in a timely manner so that all those outside ports and marinas can be instructed to enter them to seek shelter.” Konstantinos Fytiris, Minister of Justice
At the same time, the process of establishing a Coast Guard is moving forward.
Investigations Continue
Investigations into the tragedy at Cape Greco are continuing along two lines.
The police and the Deputy Ministry of Maritime Affairs are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of the 76-year-old businessman and the sinking of his boat, the “Perla Bianca,” on which his 30-year-old daughter and his 57-year-old partner were aboard.
A second investigation will be conducted by the Commission for the Investigation of Maritime Accidents and Incidents regarding the coastal passenger vessel “Petsas I.”
The investigation will also focus on reports that Mavropoulos’s vessel was operating on only one engine, as the second engine had malfunctioned, as had one of the two anchors.
Funeral on Thursday
The funeral of Dimos Mavropoulos will be held this coming Thursday at the Church of Kosmas of Aetolia at 11 a.m. The family requests that, instead of black, those attending wear colorful clothing.
Watch Erika Kavazi’s report
