QM2 replacement gangway gave way

French prosecutors investigating the collapse of a gangway on the Queen Mary 2 found that it was a last-minute replacement.

Fifteen people died in the accident when the liner was in dry dock in the French port of Saint Nazaire on Sunday. The vessel had finished its sea trials and families of the shipbuilders were invited to enjoy a day on board.

The 10m walkway from the quayside to the ship had been constructed the day before. It was put in place by specialist French firm Endel. The victims fell 15 metres before hitting the dry dock floor.

French prosecutor Pierre-Marie Block said his investigation was focusing on “technical issues” about the gangway.

It had been replaced on Saturday night because the original was not as wide as the shipyard had requested, he said.

“At this stage in the inquiry, given the information I have, we are leaning towards technical problems Mr Block said.

“The one that was in place on Saturday was put up the evening before at the request of the management who wanted a gangway 1.4 metres wide, whereas the first one was only a metre wide,” he added.