14 January 2008
Greens welcome hard-won respite for whales
The Green Party is thrilled by reports from Antarctica that Greenpeace has managed to locate the Japanese whaling fleet,
and is preventing them from adding to their grisly haul.
"We understand Greenpeace has managed to chase the whaling fleet out of Southern Ocean hunting grounds, and congratulate
them on their determination, courage and dedication. Sadly, this only provides temporary respite for the whales, as the
fleet is likely to return as soon as it has refuelled," says Conservation Spokesperson Metiria Turei.
"The New Zealand Government should be down there alongside these brave activists, not passing the buck to the
Australians.
"However, territorial disputes as reported in the media are counter-productive, and distract from the most crucial
common goal - that of saving the whales. All of the groups on the front line should be co-operating in the hope of
sparing as many whales as possible this cruel and unnecessary death.
"It's also being reported that the Australian Government vessel is refusing to accept help from Greenpeace. Given that
it has taken the Government vessel more than a month to leave port and it has yet to locate the Japanese fleet, the
Oceanic Viking should be grateful for the help they can get.
"The whales need allies, help and co-operation, not turf wars," Mrs Turei says.
ENDS