Marine Police are in talks with Government over the removal of an abandoned boat which could get in the way of Cup Match celebrations.

The sailboat is sunken near the channel just west of Meyers Boat yard in St. George's — posing a potential threat to water enthusiasts converging on the East end on Thursday and Friday.

Opposition Leader and St. George's West MP Kim Swan reported the matter to Marine Police, saying it was a risk to speedboaters and jet skiers.

Marine Police Unit Inspector Stephen Cosham said the Department of Marine and Ports, which is responsible for the removal of wrecks, has now been informed.

Insp. Cosham said: "We are bound by laws under what circumstances we can remove such vessels and as such have recently consulted with the AG's [Attorney General's] chambers on the matter, seeking their legal advice relating to the removal, storage, disposal and cost associated with the removal.

"With every wreck removal comes great expense, which normally cuts into departmental budgets. Part of our approach is to have the owners billed, if traced, to pay for the removal of the wrecks themselves and not the taxpayers."

He said Police had been in contact with the owner.

Mr. Swan said: "Members of the community have been concerned about abandoned boats in Mullet Bay and are getting impatient because they can be removed by provision of the Wrecks Act.

"The submerged sailboat is clearly a safety hazard and I hope it can be removed quickly before somebody gets hurt."