25th January 2008

Green call to defend our whales may be heeded at last

Reports that the Japanese whaling fleet are to continue their illegal hunt in the Ross Sea are the Government's chance to step up to the plate and do the job Greenpeace has been doing for them, Green Party Conservation Spokesperson Metiria Turei says.

"The Ross Sea is part of New Zealand's oceanic responsibility. The onus will no longer be on Australia and non-profit organisations to protect the whales which bring the Pacific region upwards of US$21 million annually," Mrs Turei says.

"So far, the Government has been happy to sit back and let someone else do the hard work.

"With Greenpeace reported to be running out of fuel, the New Zealand Government must now pick up the baton and move to protect an essential part of our ecosystem and important part of our economy."

"The Green Party supports non-violent protest and so far this summer Greenpeace and Sea Shepherd have been doing an admirable job. Now it is New Zealand's turn to show our commitment to these vulnerable giants.

"The moment the whaling fleet enter our waters, they should be meet by a contingent of New Zealand identified multi-purpose navy ships.

"These boats are our representatives on the water, and they must be determined to demonstrate that whaling is considered an abhorrent act in this part of the world," Mrs Turei says.

ENDS

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