Sam: ready for ‘research’ in the Southern Ocean
Sam: In earlier battle colours
The Tasmanian Greens Environment spokesperson Cassy O’Connor MP today welcomed into Hobart the latest addition to the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society’s anti-whaling fleet, the Sam Simon.
“The whale-loving people of Tasmania have shown their support for the Sea Shepherd over many years, as heroes in the fight against illegal whaling,” Ms O’Connor said.
“Tasmanians love and treasure the whales that visit our coastlines every year, which is why we are once again welcoming the crew of the Sea Shepherd into Hobart with open arms.”
“We should not tolerate the illegal hunting of whales by the Japanese, which is why we are so fortunate to have the Sea Shepherd out in front, standing in the way of this heartless slaughter.”
“The best thing would be for the Japanese whaling fleet stay to home, but if they do decide to come again this year then it’s good to know that we have the Sea Shepherd.”
Ms O’Connor said the ship’s crew were seeking donations of equipment and supplies, with a wish list available on the Sea Shepherd website:
http://www.seashepherd.org/support-us/sam-simon-wish-list.html
• Greg Hunt: GOVERNMENT MUST RESPOND AS WHALERS HEAD SOUTH
With news that the Japanese whaling fleet has departed and is heading south for the whaling season, the Government must respond and prepare a vessel to monitor this year’s whaling season in the Southern Ocean.
I have written to the Prime Minister requesting that the Government take early action to deal with the potential for conflict on the high seas.
The stakes this year are particularly high. Anti-whaling protest group Sea Shepherd is mounting a “Zero Tolerance” campaign with the aim of preventing the killing of a single whale.
They have purchased another ship which will significantly boost their ability to engage directly with the whaling fleet.
With this in mind it is more important than ever that the Government despatch a Customs vessel to the Southern Ocean to monitor this year’s whale hunt.
As is clear from recent years, tensions can run high between whalers and protestors and there is a real risk of conflict or collision causing injury, death or a major environmental spill in the event of a sinking.
It is vital Australia has a presence in the Southern Ocean to help minimise the risk of harm, to act in a potential search and rescue capacity and to independently chronicle the continued killing of whales.
By failing to provide a presence, the Government is virtually turning a blind eye to the expected killing of whales.
This Labor Government has been all talk and no action when it comes to stopping the whaling and to fulfilling our obligations at sea.
