The Council’s marine contractor worked throughout the weekend to prepare for the removal of oil and other potential pollutants which were scheduled to be removed from the vessel via helicopter tomorrow.

In a statement issued by the Council today, they said that current weather forecasts have inhibited their progress:

"The Council’s marine contractor has advanced preparations for the removal of the oil and other materials. 

"Currently oil and other possible contaminants are being removed from miscellaneous sources such as hydraulic hoses and fuel tanks of light machinery on board.

"Weather conditions are currently challenging and tomorrow’s planned helicopter operation will not take place."

The Council is continuing to monitor forecasts to identify a safe opportunity for the removal operation, which they hope will arise in the next few days. 

The so-called 'ghost ship', washed up on the rocks at Ballycotton during Storm Dennis and has attracted a considerable amount of public attention.

However, Cork County Council has reiterated the warning to the public to stay away from the wreck location and is restricting access to a local cul-de-sac road with resident’s access only being permitted. 

The council also advised that the lands along this stretch of shoreline are in private ownership and are not open to the public.

When the removal operation takes place, the Council has stated that the surrounding area will be closed off to public access for safety reasons and a no-fly zone will be in place.