3.09.2008
Shell to Sea protesters in inflatable Kayaks braved strong winds and rough seas whilst approaching the Irish Navy Gunboat stationed off the coast, to establish communication with it’s Captain.
Today at 1.30pm, eight Shell to Sea protesters in seven inflatable kayaks braved force 5–6 northerly winds and 6 foot waves, to attempt communication with the Irish Gun Ship, the Le Orla.
Concerned by the arrival of a second Navy vessel into Broadhaven Bay, the Shell to Sea crew of the Granuaile (part of the Emerald Squadron), attempted to speak to the Captain of the Le Orla.
Following the Captain’s failure to respond to Shell to Sea’s last attempt to establish contact on Saturday, today’s message was relayed in both Irish and English to ensure it would be understood. The Captain was asked to declare the Navy’s intentions in the bay and why a second ship had been deployed.
No response was received, instead, the ship fired up its engines, weighed anchor and fled the area.
Maebh Hall, one of the crew in the Emerald Squadron, said ” I couldn’t believe it. We approached this huge military ship in a few inflatable boats, and they ran scared. Its crazy here, there’s now two navy ships acting for Shell in our bay. Will they withdraw the army from Chad and bring them in next?”
ENDS