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OFF TO SEA


Some of the Japan Fisheries Agency vessels which could possibly escort the Japan Whaling Fleet

The NAUTICAL LOG Press Release folder held a report from BBC NEWS Asia-Pacific that the Japanese are off whaling again this season 2010-2011. 


Titled "Japan confirms whaling fleet to sail" it continues:
"Fisheries Minister Michiko Kano said extra ships would escort the fleet to the Antarctic to guard against harassment from anti-whaling activists."


Last year Japan cut short its whaling season because of harassment.  Australia which is challenging Japan's whaling in the International Court condemned the announcement.


"There is widespread concern in the international community at Japan's programme and widespread calls for it to cease" Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd said.


There has been a ban on commercial whaling for 25 years but it is poorly enforced - including by Australia which does not even patrol its own Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary - leaving it up to the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (SSCS) to do so.  Japan catches about 1000 whales each season under the guise of a "scientific research program".


Mr. Kano continued in his announcement "Japan will conduct the research whaling while strengthening measures against acts of sabotage, including Fisheries Agency escort ships."


The SSCS has already announced they will organize anti-whaling activism under their "Operation Divine Wind "  which if it is anything like last years operation will be mainly hot air. The aging and according to SSCS internal reports unwell 'Wats-his-name' is a recognised expert at dramatically worded hot air reports.


Good Watch

Please remember the 400 of our fellow seafarers held captive by pirates.  Let us work for their freedom together.


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