The Damia-Desgagnes: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In a heartbreaking development, Renato Battisti, the chief cook aboard the 'Darnia Desgagnés', has passed away after battling COVID-19. The vessel, which is operated by the Quebec-based shipping company Groupe Desgagnés, docked in Sarnia as doctors rushed Battisti to the hospital following his diagnosis at sea. On November 3, 2020, the Seafarers International Union of Canada expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt Facebook post, describing Battisti as a cherished member of the maritime community. They stated, 'We are deeply saddened to announce the tragic passing of our brother. Our thoughts are with his family, crewmates, and fellow union members during this unbearable time. Rest in peace, Renato. You will always be remembered as a true COVID hero.' Throughout his career, Battisti served with pride on various ships within the Groupe Desgagnés fleet, with the asphalt-bitumen-chemical tanker being his latest assignment. In a gesture of mourning, the company lowered its flags for three days starting November 5 to honor Battisti's memory. They acknowledged his significant contribution to the team, stating, 'Mr. Battisti has made a profound impact on his colleagues and will be greatly missed. His sudden death under such tragic circumstances is a great loss to us all.' The 'Darnia Desgagnés' arrived at Sarnia Harbour on September 29 due to concerns over COVID-19 aboard. Although only one crew member exhibited symptoms, 19 were quarantined after testing positive for the virus. Lambton Public Health confirmed monitoring of five cases of COVID-19 alongside 14 close contacts within the maritime sector. This incident marked the first COVID-19 outbreak in the fleet of Groupe Desgagnés, although the company had previously implemented rigorous safety protocols following earlier incidents that turned out to be false alarms. Battisti's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, reinforcing the challenges faced by seafarers amid the ongoing pandemic.

The tanker 'Damia Desgagnés' has been successfully refloated and towed to a quay in Prescott, Ontario, on the morning of June 17. This action allows inspectors from the Transportation Safety Board (TSB) to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the vessel's grounding. The incident occurred on June 15 at 10:40 p.m. in the Morrisburg area, which lies between Cornwall and Brockville, Ontario. At the time of the grounding, the ship was navigating from Montreal to Nanticoke, Ontario, while carrying 13,000 tonnes of petroleum products. After the salvage operation, the St. Lawrence Seaway was reopened, clearing the way for all vessels in the vicinity. Preliminary reports suggest the tanker experienced an unexpected failure of its propulsion system, forcing it aground. In response, three TSB investigators have been dispatched to gather evidence through photographs and interviews with company personnel and witnesses. Additionally, representatives from the ship's builder are on-site for their own inquiry. Notably, the 'Damia Desgagnés' is a newly commissioned vessel, having only entered service at the end of March. For further details and photographs, visit http://ici.radio-canada.ca/nouvelle/1040273/navire-echoue-pres-morrisburg-remorque.

In a notable marine incident, the tanker 'Damia Desgagnes' grounded on the St. Lawrence River on June 16, 2017, at approximately 3 a.m. The vessel was navigating upstream, en route from Montreal to Nanticoke, when it encountered a mechanical failure that led to its grounding east of the Iroquois Lock. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and the incident did not result in any pollution. At the time of the grounding, one tug was stationed with another en route to assist. Once the second tug arrived, it successfully maneuvered the vessel back into the navigable channel. During the operation, vessel traffic on the Seaway was temporarily halted. It is important to note that while there was a higher flow of water in the river, this was not a contributing factor to the grounding of the 'Damia Desgagnes'.