The ownership of the ghost ship MV Alta, which washed up onto Ballycotton rocks during Storm Dennis, is still being established by the Revenue Commissioners after a representative of the alleged owner has come forward.

In the latest statement issued by the council on the matter, Cork County Councils said “Consultations are continuing between the Irish Coastguard, Cork County Council, the Receiver of Wrecks and other relevant bodies in relation to the future of the wreck.

“The Revenue Commissioners are currently in the process of seeking to establish ownership of the wreck.” Efforts to remove the sealed containers of oil and other materials on board the ship are ongoing with a number of options currently being evaluated.

The council’s marine contractor was on board the vessel again this morning and carried out a full assessment of the materials onboard.

Following the evaluation, the council has said there is very little diesel fuel onboard.

“There remains no visible pollution within the Ballycotton Bay Special Protection Area or nearby proposed Natural Heritage Areas.” The local authorities once again asked people to refrain from boarding the vessel.

“Cork County Council continues to ask members of the public to stay away from the wreck location as it is located on a dangerous and inaccessible stretch of coastline and is in an unstable condition.”