The following is an update on the Transport Accident Investigation Commission’s investigation into the sinking of the fishing charter boat Francie.

Commission Chief Investigator Captain Tim Burfoot said the Commission’s investigation was progressing well.

“We have a team of four investigators currently working in the Auckland area. They have carried out a number of interviews and more are planned.”

The team was likely to remain in the area till the end of the week.

Captain Burfoot said the Commission was still keen to hear from anyone who might have information on the Francie, especially those who may have been on board on previous occasions. These people could make contact by registering their details on the home page of the Commission’s website www.taic.org.nz. A registration facility had been set up for the purpose.

The information would be treated in strict confidence by one of the Commission’s investigators.

Captain Burfoot said the principle purpose of the Commission was to determine the circumstances and causes of an accident with a view to making the transport sector more safe. It was not to place blame on any individual or agency.

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