Dec 29, 2013 6:02 PM NT
CBC Newfoundland & Labrador
Cargo ship in distress near Portugal Cove South
Vessel was having problems with its hull, several people safely hoisted onto helicopter
The joint rescue co-ordination centre in Halifax says a 24-member crew is being rescued from a container ship off the coast of Newfoundland.
Officials said four non-essential crew members have already been hoisted from the MSC Monterey, which is located about 60 kilometres south of Portugal Cove, by two Cormorant helicopters out of 103 Squadron Gander. They are being transported to an RCMP casualty reception point in Portugal Cove South.
The 20 other crew members remain on the ship and are working to resolve the issue.
Several aircraft and a Coast Guard vessel were deployed to help with the rescue after the ship sent out a distress call at about 11 a.m. local time. Officials said the crew reported a problem with the ship's hull and said the vessel was in danger of breaking apart.
Officials said it doesn't appear anyone was injured.
The ship's point of origin has not been determined.
With files from The Canadian Press
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/cargo-ship-in-distress-near-portugal-cove-south-1.2478492