Crew and staff of Mercy Ships were informed on May 3, 2005 that the Mercy Ship Caribbean Mercywill be placed into a Not-In-Service mode starting June 6, 2005. Most of the crew will transfer to other Mercy Ships locations. This decision was made in response to the lack of finances for the extensive unexpected repairs required to keep the ship in service, staffing concerns and a need for a clear plan for the future beyond the Barahona Dominican Republic Field Assignment.  During the 6-12 month period, the development of a clear written assessment and deployment methodology will be created. From that, a proposal will be created for theCaribbean Mercy’s future service. This proposal for the Caribbean Mercy will be presented to the Board of Directors for their approval.

Following the Board’s approval, finances will need to be raised for the shipyard phrase. The amount needed will depend on the proposal and timing. Once sufficient funds are promised, the shipyard phase will start and the time necessary for completion of all projects will depend on the proposal and finances. A plan for the re-deployment of the Caribbean Mercy will be created. Following the shipyard phase, the plan for redeployment will be implemented. A small crew will remain onboard the Caribbean Mercy, currently docked in Chickasaw, Alabama, to ensure security and maintenance during the vessel’s time there. The ship moved from Bender Shipyard to Chickasaw on May 11th and will remain berthed there until plans for the future are implemented.