PM offers condolences over Georgian victim of Norman Atlantic fire

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili expresses condolence over the death of a Georgian priest Ilia Kartozia, who died during a fire on the Italian ferry Norman Atlantic in the Adriatic Sea.

In a special letter released today, Garibsahvili underlined the heroism and bravery of the deceased priest.

"Superior of the Mtskheta Monastery, Ilia Kartozia showed all of us an example of civil heroism. At the expense of his own life, he saved the lives of others on a burning ferry. It is a big tragedy, which makes us proud at the same time. His heroism calls for adequate recognition. We will all cherish his memory," the letter read.

In addition, by the Prime Minister’s decision, all expenses for the transportation and funeral of Ilia Kartozia would be covered by Georgian state.

The Italian-flagged Norman Atlantic was caught on fire and started to list on side on December 29 early in the morning.

It is not clear what caused the tragedy, which killed at least 11 people. Up to 20 people are still missing, while the rescue works continue.

Priest Ilia Kartozia reportedly left for Italy to make a pilgrimage in the church of St. Nicolas in the city of Bari, Italy together with eight Georgians from his flock.

In total, nine Georgian citizens were aboard the burning ship, including one pregnant woman and one child. All of them feel well and now are at the city of Bari, Italy.

In an interview to an Italian newpaper La Republicca, one of the Georgian survivors noted that the priest Ilia Kartozia died while he let woman with the child take his place on the rescue boat.

"Later, when his turn has come to move to the boat, the rope had broken and he had fallen into the sea. Someone threw him a rescue jacket, but the waves were too high and he did not manage to take it. We hoped that he would be rescued by another rescue ship, but unfortunately he was not,” said Irakli in his interview to the newspaper.