New Video: Scuffles as Greenpeace protesters try to board boats in Grand Harbour

Joe Portelli

Jul 12th 2009, 02:28

Someone has to raise the Profile of these problems.

There is no Perfect way to do this because, politicians prefer to promise and talk about things that make people feel good but warn us about other political parties by talking about things that make us feel bad.

Greepeace are in this cycle, except they have to communicate something that makes us feel bad, so we dont take easily to the Messenger.

Anyways, it's all been said below - the man hitting the woman should be charged with assault, as he used excessive force for the situation, and the vessel master is responisible to take action too.

In Malta, fishermen also have no choice regaring selection of fish to catch. There are no rich grounds, like Libya or Italy. We live on a shipping route and dumping of illegal wastes goes un noticed. We also do more harm to sea environment through our waste disposal, think - every time we wash the plates soap liquid goes into the sea - Some Hotels have waste disposal on nearby beaches, leaking?- so its good to raise the profile/awarenes of this common problem - not unique to Malta !

Norbert Bugeja

Jun 26th 2009, 11:04

Greenpeace have always been extremists in their protests....anyone remembers the damage made to Kastilja by greenpeace activists during another protest....

@Ian Ellul....who did wrong? if someone didn't give permission to enter your house and persist what would your reaction be?

Ian C Ellul

Jun 25th 2009, 16:16

TVM news clearly showed a person on board of a vessel violently beating repeatedly a greenpeace activist on the head with his fist. Who did wrong? The greepeace activist who made his way illegally on the ship or the ship worker who defended the ship?

Joe Fenech

Jun 24th 2009, 20:44

Our blindfolded patriotism makes us miss the main points: we can't regulate ourselves and we are insensitive to world issues!

katie micallef

Jun 24th 2009, 20:09

Greenpeace abused its right to peaceful protest by illegaly boarding private vessels.

They have no authority to carry out searches and they lose a lot of credibility when they pull stunts like this.

However the punching was out of line, they could have continued to use the hoses and thrown her back in the water without resorting to violence.

jmifsud

Jun 24th 2009, 18:13

@mvella
M'ghandux x'jaqsam, sajd illegali hazin u overfishing, imma li titla fuq dghajsa hekk fuq suspett li wara deher ma kienx minnu huwa hazin izjed. Is-sajjieda wara kollox huma haddiema li jbatu hafna, u jekk kien hemm xi haga illegali il GP imisshom informaw l-awtoritajiet biex jiehdu passi mhux jiehdu il-ligi b idejhom. Tal-GP kisru il-ligi mhux is-sajjieda f'dal kaz

MVella

Jun 24th 2009, 17:47

KOMPLU THANZRU U BATTLU L-MEDITERRAN U MLEWLHOM IL-BWIET - LA BOLOH HEKK TRIDU.

jmifsud

Jun 24th 2009, 14:25

Are exhaust fumes only to be controlled on cars, because the environmental ship Rainbow Warrior which was berthed at The Grand Harbour Marina was letting out obnoxious fumes which filled the area to the detriment of all passers by. Do the authorities in Malta check these vessels, it is an old vessel, ok registered in Holland, but when it is berthed in Malta at least they respect us by not poisoning our air first before defending the animals.

J.Cini

Jun 24th 2009, 11:03

@ Maria Garriga - yeh - go holiday in the back streets of Napoli - very friendly people there, you should know!
@ Liam Kelly..The footage was taken by greenpeace-it says so on the report-sorry to disappoint you - Can't you see that these shots are an invaluable GP publicity tool? Or haven't you noticed that they sent the female members of their group as front runners while their "menfolk" stood back?
@ Chris Finch..You never miss an opportunity to denigrate Malta and the Maltese. To all those who are singling out Malta and the Maltese for disproportional vilification..I'll bet that even in childhood you used to wander the schoolyard searching out easy targets to vent your anger at.

Aneliese Camilleri

Jun 24th 2009, 10:57

@ E Bartolo. I do not need to move to Africa thank you. ill just go to Marsa :) @ N Coppini. Not at all welcomed by far i wouldnt expect that. but there are many ways of solving things rather than a fist! they had nothing to hide in the end so....

Aneliese Camilleri

Jun 24th 2009, 10:49

@ Ms. Zarb Darmanin. Ok fair enough I agree with you on trespassing, yet another government issue i guess that would not be seen to because ‘it’s not important at the moment’. Whatever the case aggressiveness seems to be the answer to everything in this country. I surely wouldn’t like to meet that man in the road, for fear of hooting my horn to get a whack like that!! Besides not to jump onto another subject, but I wouldn’t see a 130kg police man arriving on scene 1 hour later sorting out the situation either!

Ernest Vella

Jun 24th 2009, 06:46

@ all those Maltese GP lickers....hope they don't eat this summer "hobz bit-Ton taz-Zejt"...for goodness sake are you saying that GP can do whatever they like....this is not a peacefull protest....this is something which was perpatrated....protestors who have a camera so that first they invite for violence and than show it on internet....GP touched the very deep...I cannot understand timesofmalta, accepting this video which is not done by them....I think timesofmalta must listen to other side and let the fishermen have a voice in all this.

GP showed there arrogance!!!
I again ask, WHY MALTA? and not other countries....maybe we have to freedom that now they are making us a carpet....MALTA stand up to all these before it's to late.....the funny thing then....the fisherman had nothing irregular

Maria Garriga

Jun 24th 2009, 03:36

I had never read about Malta until the article about Maltese sailors punching women in the face because they asked about illegal tuna.
Nice manners. Who cares why she asked. People ask questions all the time. That's life.
Tourists especially ask questions.
Tourists around the world now know better than to visit Malta.
We would rather spend our travel dollars on a place with higher regard for people.

Joe Fenech

Jun 23rd 2009, 23:51

Our over fishing has practically destroyed tuna and swordfish. The invasion by jellyfish is an example of this.

It is very sad Malta needs pressure from international group in order to regulate itself. We're just an example of a country that cannot rule itself, same as Africa.

This shocking video shows the quality of some of the fishermen we have! A I hope action is taken against these people who are a disgrace to the nation.

Tyrone Camilleri

Jun 23rd 2009, 23:39

"The protest was held by activists from the UK, Australia, the US and Lebanon"

Why were these people protesting in Malta?? Shouldn't they be trying to save their countries from "overfishing" tuna illegally which, by the way, wasn't found on the boats.

Greenpeace couldn't sink any lower with these stupid protests. They tried to do "a peaceful inspection". What's peaceful about boarding a ship from the side without any authorisation?? Very little in my view and it seems the fishermen see it my way as they weren't so peaceful and unfortunately I am going to have to side with them this time. When Greenpeace start doing things the correct ways I might switch sides but otherwise they will remain a joke to me.

Daisy Harrison

Jun 23rd 2009, 22:39

People, stop eating endangered species!

Ray Mangani

Jun 23rd 2009, 21:50

To all those in favour of GP attitude towards these fishing vessels...
What if someone out of the blues insists in gettinng into your home to check ANY kind of illegality which you may be combining in your privacy, with no authority at all, how would you react. I'm sure that not just a punch in the face would do.........

Pauline Thompson

Jun 23rd 2009, 21:25

This sort of behaviour doesn't surprise me one little bit.

Marsaxlokk market Sunday 14 June.

We were disgusted to see such small fish being sold. Supplies will run out if this is too continue - authorities please take note.

Further on a couple of officials were testing the water temperature in the trays with fish being sold for human consumption at one of the stalls. No ice, so no prizes for guessing that the water temperature was too hot. As the officials started removing the fish, the seller became very aggressive towards them and was banging on the counter like a mad woman. She told them that she was trying to earn a living. Apart from making an exhibition of herself in front of everyone present at the time, she obviously couldn't have cared for her customers well being as long as she made her living!!

Well done to the officials for keeping their cool and for looking after the consumers well being.

Further on, blue shark was being sold insubstitute of accola. We told the stall holder that she was selling blue shark and not accola - she didn't say anything. This sort of thing needs to stop.

Kevin Pirotta

Jun 23rd 2009, 20:35

May I suggest to Greenpeace that, if they are going for commando assault type tactics, that they attend such courses first, to improve their technique. Trying to go over a ship's side in broad daylight is just asking to be thrown back into the sea as in fact happened. Further more, unless using female wrestlers, I suggest that the fairer sex refrain from such an adventure as it is quite ridiculous to cry foul when you are in fact, the aggressor.

C Fenech

Jun 23rd 2009, 19:36

In my opinion the way Greenpeace act is to simply provoke. They have all the right to protest but they absolutely have no right to illegaly board a private vessel. one can easily note the stupid behaviour at 0.45 sec where the activist clearly takes the opportunity to try and climb onto the fishing boat as soon as one of the crew moves away from his position. this is simply stupid. behave like an idiot... get punched like an idiot.

Andrew Gat

Jun 23rd 2009, 18:57

"Greenpeace activists attacked during protest against EU fishing vessel
Published: 22 June, 2009
Greenpeace activists from the Rainbow Warrior have been violently attacked as they attempted to carry out a peaceful inspection of the Spanish fishing vessel, Cabo Tinoso Dos. The attack came as activists opened a banner, saying ‘Bluefin Tuna Massacre’, to highlight the unsustainable fishing activities of such vessels, part of the industrial fleets that threaten the entire bluefin tuna industry. Greenpeace is calling on local authorities to carry out an official inspection of the vessel"

Here we go folks! Same tactics, same sympathy-grabbing tactic that these extremist groups LOVE to use. All conveniently one-sided and exaggerated.....anyone remember our dear anti-all-hunting-all-the-time-CABS??!

Funny, though, the press release seems to imply they were attacked, for no reason, without provocaton, etc etc. They just "opened a banner". Yeah right.

A Sciberras

Jun 23rd 2009, 18:49

If this is the way to Protest than
" SHAME ON GREENPEACE "

Graham Crocker

Jun 23rd 2009, 18:44

Steven Cutajar, the person he threw overboard was the same woman that afterwards charged toward him while he was trying to hose her off. Not exactly a smart move if you ask me, I'm not condoning violence or anything, but she's nuts.

I've been aboard the Green Peace ship as a kid and they love showing the 'baddies' beating up the 'goodies' and its always happens an activist tries to board a ship illegally or when they spoil the cargo. You should have heard the presentator; he made them appear as if they've died for the cause or something.

Franco Farrugia

Jun 23rd 2009, 18:33

Many comments underneath worry me. This is not the country that I belong to, even though I will continue to work hard as a Maltese citizen to counter all those 'fellow'-Maltese who denigrate and put to shame the name of the Maltese nation.

C. Caruana

Jun 23rd 2009, 18:22

Please note that the people involved are not fishermen. They work for a tuna herding company and their job involves carrying supplies, divers , equipment etc which is a far cry from fishing.

Joseph Dalli

Jun 23rd 2009, 18:03

I hope that the greenpeace will get a good warning from police only the latter have the right through special warrants to board or search a boat or any private property the fisherman did the right thing imagine if you try to enter these peoples house what will happen send them away if they want to protest they can do so on the quay and let the officers do the searches

Jason Borg

Jun 23rd 2009, 17:40

I think that Greenpeace dot't have the right to grt on board of the ship. If there was any irregularities the police should have done the search. I hope that the greenpeace people are not considering them above the law.

Luke Duncan

Jun 23rd 2009, 17:00

Any one can explain the excess amount of jelly fish? and in responce to those who said that they need a legal warrant to board the boat so that they can be able to make their necessary inspection, if it was me who own the boat and i'm sure that i have not done anything wrong....yes inspect the boat as much as you like! i have not done anything wrong! THAT'S HOW OUR ATTITUDE SHALL BE. FOR CHRIST SAKE WE'RE A CIVILIZED COUNTRY!

Steven Cutajar

Jun 23rd 2009, 16:32

Just to remind everyone -

@ 1.30sec - 1.33sec that IS a woman... such a fact that a guy says "tiha tiha"....

Greenpeace do it their way and it's wrong... but that man wearing a red T-shirt should aslo consider taking part in a next 'Roky' movie... First he throws a man overboard then he punches a woman... they really should employ him as a security for the boat rather than a fisherman 'jkn' ;)

Sylvana Zarb Darmanin

Jun 23rd 2009, 16:13

Ms Aneliese Camilleri, I and other Maltese Citizens pay our taxes so that we may have a Police Force which ensures law and order as well as ensuring that trespassing onto private property is not allowed! Madam, do you acknowledge the provocation of this Greenpeace individual? I, personally, may not react the way these fishermen have reacted BUT I will surely not allow anyone to trespass onto my private property!!

marco meli

Jun 23rd 2009, 15:59

fisherman has just starting getting a taste of what hunters got to face!!! hunters got cabs, now fisherman got greenpeace! welcome to the eu! more to follow!

R Muscat

Jun 23rd 2009, 15:51

SHAME how can a man punch a woman in the face and in such a barbaric manner are we in EU Malta or Taliban territory where it is a matter of normality to beat a woman?

I hope that the police take action against the aggressor, it is precisely this kind of macho behaviour that ruins our country. There is no excuse for such behaviour it just goes to show how uneducated a segement of our population is. SHAME.

E Bartolo

Jun 23rd 2009, 14:47

@ Aneliese Camilleri
No Aneliese, you DO NOT HAVE the right to trespass and force your way onto other people's property. If you would like to have this right I suggest you move to Africa, where property law is a taboo.
You do however have the right to express your feelings, in writing or a voce, or in any other way permissable by CIVIL law.....not jungle law

C.Busuttil

Jun 23rd 2009, 14:39

To all experts

unsustainable fishing is not done by maltese fishermen, if the blue tuna is at risk surely its not because of the fishermen in these small islands.

Greenpeace should also take notice that the great majority of the maltese give a fish about their protests on tuna fish, Greenpeace should protest about the destruction of the maltese countryside, they should try and stop development in Gozo before its too late, instead of losing their time with something that the maltese have no fault in. Besides they should also stop these "teatrini"

J.Scicluna - Rabat

Jun 23rd 2009, 14:36

@ Liam Kelly

As for the cameraman of this film.....

The cameraperson is obviously a Green PEACE activist whose sole job is to film the boarding HOPING that his mates are thrown overboard! ONLY in this way GP try to wrest support form the watching public!

GP do this on purpose to provoke.

In my opinion, GP are make a mockery of the law and all those that aid a abet them are doing likewise.

r sammut

Jun 23rd 2009, 13:42

@ Antoine Grima
Sorry Sir, but my text mentioned National and on my dictionary this is not the direct equal to Nationalist! So please check the mix up and stop parroting the other comment!

Reuben Micallef

Jun 23rd 2009, 13:41

In this case both GP and the fishermen were out of line.......GP had every right to protest in a civilized manner but no right at all to embark or demand explanations from the fishermen,if they had any suspicion they could have called for the intervention of the authorites,.......the fishermen could have also behaved in a more civilized manner .......in this case the "punishment" (punches and throwing overboard) does not fit the "crime"(boarding of vessel etc,etc).

Nicholas Coppini

Jun 23rd 2009, 13:40

Dear Analise,
Punching and swearing is never nice; especially punching a woman! ever heard of the saying let sleeping dogs lie! Did she expect to be welcomed aboard with a champagne cocktail! In anycase no irregularities were found by the authorities. Unlike you I am proud to be Maltese. The greenpeace activist should have chained herself to a ship to make a statement; this time she got a bit more then she bargained for. What a chimp!

E.Schembri

Jun 23rd 2009, 13:05

Whilst I support Greenpeace cause and am against illegal hunting, that is not the way to protest.
You cannot just board a private vessel without an invitation from the captain. Not even the police can do that without a court warrant.
This video clearly shows that GP woman went there to get beaten and have it caught on film.
In my opinion Greenpeace have lost their respect yesterday and lost support for their cause.
Pity.

godfrey pisani

Jun 23rd 2009, 12:17

right they come here to board ships and turn our ports upside down , and thing that they can do what they want because they decieded that there are illegal fish on board , when it turned out that these fisher man had no illegal fish ....wow do your home work guys first pls and dont expect any bed of roses from these fisherman if you board the illegally ..

Aneliese Camilleri

Jun 23rd 2009, 11:37

Can you believe that? that aggressiveness on that man punching that woman? not only am i ashamed of being Maltese seeing this attitude from such a greedy population, but also ashamed that nothing would be done to these Men. Then i, a citizen who pays tax just like that man, can not express my feelings for the fear of getting whacked like that poor woman did...... what is happening to this country!!!!

Nicholas Coppini

Jun 23rd 2009, 11:16

Geen 'PEACE' my foot. These are not pacifists but trouble makers disguised as goodies. Not even the authorities could board those vessels without an invitation from the captain or a court order. Greenpeace lost a LOT of respect they had yesterday. Does Greenpeace not have a legal advisor or does it only harbour trouble makers and daredevils? Shame! They ought to have done their job in a smarter way but all in all on the other hand I think they achieved what they set out to; causing a stir and media attention for one of their issues. Still I think they lost a lot of respect.

J Theuma

Jun 23rd 2009, 10:55

Was that a lady or a man at 1.25 who was punched?
It's a disgrace. Are those fishermen maltese? Did he/she deserved all those punches?
We are a country of shames!!!!!

A. Sammut

Jun 23rd 2009, 10:48

Dear Chris Finch,
GP have their goals and in their defence one has to say that they do bring awareness to us joe blows of the world, but they DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT to trespass on private property and if you and I are prosecuted if we do so, SO THE HEC SHOULD THEY.

It is only the police that with a court order have the authority to do the checking that should be done and not Green Peace - they are not supreme.

Liam Kelly

Jun 23rd 2009, 10:23

At least Greenpeace have the balls to stand up to blatent unsustaunable fishing...

Fishermen; In a few years when all the fish have gone you'll all go crying to the government and EU that you've lost your livlihoods and beg for hand outs, yet it was you in the first place who were greedy and over-fished.

As for the cameraman of this film. You stood there and preferred to film a woman getting battered by 4 men just so you could get your clip....Didn't bother going to help her at all my friend?

Marton Saliba

Jun 23rd 2009, 10:20

We're living in a point in time where humanity is literally crushing the enviroment.

@ all who say that the way Greenpeace carried their ninspection was not correct:

what were you expecting? these capitalist pigs (the fishers...and corprations for that matter) will not take any chances, so why should greenpeace?

R. Azzopardi

Jun 23rd 2009, 09:37

@Keith Davis

Kindly explain to me what on earth is wrong with making money (as long as it is earned in a fair and legal manner)?

C Barbara

Jun 23rd 2009, 09:20

Can someone tell me, before getting too hot under the collar, whether the fishing boats were Maltese or from some other country. Maltese fishing boats usually berth in the fishing villages, not in the Grand Harbour. If they are not Maltese, what is their contribution to the local economy, apart from depleting our fish stocks.

If this brawl happened in our village feast, everyone would come out shouting: "Kemm huma slavag!". But this is all fine! Stop being servile to foreigners.

Does anyone realise that these films go round the world aired by such tv stations as Discovery World! Does anyone give a value to the damage done to the country's image?

I suppose both the Greenpeace activitists and the fishermen should be arraigned in court and be given a lesson for getting Malta's name in disrepute.

Greenpeace activists are usually on the organisation's payroll.

So I suggest they be given the clear message to go to fight their wars elsewhere.

lgalea

Jun 23rd 2009, 09:05

The result of the Spanish vessel fishing in Maltese waters is the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) of the European Union which gives the right to fishing vessels of other member states to fish in our waters. Spanish fishermen are known the world over for their destructive fishing and have destroyed many fishing grounds. You can ask the British fishermen what destruction the Spanish fishermen have wreaked on their fish stocks. Now because of EU membership they are allowed to fish in Maltese waters to destroy our fish stocks where previously under PL Governments no foreign fishermen were allowed. This is another negative aspect of EU membership.

George Fleming

Jun 23rd 2009, 08:53

@ All those who said that the GP who boarded the vessel and was thrown overboard was a woman well I have to say that it was a man "M-A-N" just take a very good look at the video,it is the same man who in the middle part of the video ( when the timer reads 00.50) is showing a yellow banner saying BLUEFIN TUNA MESSACRE and then he tries again to board the fishing vessel from the jetty and is sprayed with water and is thrown out again the second time,well this as one can see is just a publicity stunt for GREENPEACE,because they know that in our dear country every outsider can do whatever he want without being punished by law and secondly they (GP) can show their videos throught the EU and the rest of the world and gain the people simpathy and offcourse donations after all that`s the important thing MONEY,MONEY and MORE MONEY.

Julian Esposito

Jun 23rd 2009, 08:37

Whilst I am all in favour of sustainable fishing, I totally disagree with the methods employed by Greenpeace in this instance. As a side note, while I have not seen the programme itself, I find the advert for "Whale Wars" running on the Discovery Channel disturbing since the guys fighting for their cause seem pretty extremist.

P Agius

Jun 23rd 2009, 08:20

GP should act within the boundaries of the law......The fishermen were protecting their boat against a "peaceful attack". In a civilised nation, only the police (and with a warrant) can do so.....

K Camilleri

Jun 23rd 2009, 08:06

do you call that a peaceful inspection?? boarding a boat unexpected and without any authority?
Who gave these activists authority to do what they want?
Can I start my own group and call it "No Extremists" and do what I want too??

"The activists said access was blocked after the captains refused to tell them what fish they had on board" ... really??
...would you like to know... what fuel they use too?? Or maybe if they use plastic bags or not?? that might help.

Mr. GreenPeacer,
next time someone knocks at your door, open and let him in to conduct a peaceful inspection ... that sounds like you
doesn't it?

MMuscat

Jun 23rd 2009, 07:44

I condemn all sorts of violence..But who gave Greenpeace any authority to board on private property? If somebody knocks on my door and tries to enter my house ' to inspect it', I will surely resist and find all means how to protect my household..I think Greenpeace were very arrogant in thinking that they have the right to board on the mentioned vessels.

simon sullivan

Jun 23rd 2009, 00:57

(mr) farrugia ...for the love of all that is holy kindly do not apologise on my behalf...while I do not condone unsolicited violence should anybody trespass on private property with the aim to unfoundedly curtail anothers chances of earning a living in this day and age... that 'criminal' will get what is and will always be coming to him !

While the chap in red was overly agressive should the trespasser not boarded the vessel illegaly...then he would not have been attacked !

nowadays in the uk (as an vile example) should a thief injure himseld on something sharp within the abode he may be robbing, he is entitled to compensation.

People get what they deserve.... 'you break into my house'... you finish the rest !

Matthew Agius

Jun 22nd 2009, 23:22

Whatever the cause of GreenPeace, this is not a pacific protest. One cannot expect to go into someone's property without a mandate and then show such videos to victimise oneself.

This is no Wild West. The law and judiciary has its own ways of making its investigations.

J Farrugia

Jun 22nd 2009, 23:22

First of all shame on the Times for allowing a video taken by Greenpeace to be shown on its own website. Such lackeyism is obscene. Secondly: can the ministry tell us if legal action will be taken against Greenpeace for playing the cops in our waters? From this same video it shows clearly who were the aggressors: Greenpeace. Such arrogance, such criminal intent to commit a crime is self evident. And finally what are the local police doing about this act of piracy from Green peace (sic)? Or are they just bnoyscouts in uniform obeying instructions from CABS and greenpeace?

r sammut

Jun 22nd 2009, 23:14

@Chris Finch
There seem to be a mix up in video showing differently on home computers!!! Mine shows a GP lady trying to force her way on somebody’s boat in very un-lady like manners! The version on my computer showed that she was then presented with a bouquet of roses that she clearly deserved!
Considering your broken hearth about the incident, why not invite the GP staff over to your place and let them do a search there to boost up their feelings!

Antoine Grima

Jun 22nd 2009, 23:01

@r sammut . So you are trying to put blame on Nationalists, now??? Myself am a Nationalist but have still aired my response against GP. That is the difference.. Nationalists voice their opinions while LP's voice their their master's voice!

I can't figure out how you had to colour opinions into red or blue. Or it is now purple?

Albert Spiteri

Jun 22nd 2009, 22:27

It seems this was a spanish shipping vessel. What wasCabo Tinoso Dos a spanish shipping vessel doing catching fish in Maltese territorial waters? It is known fact that Spanish are amongst the most responsible for the depletion of the Mediterranean's Tuna population. We should thank GP on behalf of Maltese fishermen.

r sammut

Jun 22nd 2009, 22:11

Even last year’s Malta quota was below specified, so why GP wants to pick on Malta as exterminating tuna? The news with banner and the Maltese fishermen aggressive resistance has made the rounds the world over!

Only the last tiny bit about NO TUNA FOUND ON BOARD failed to take off further than the territorial boundaries!

J. Bonnici

Jun 22nd 2009, 22:02

Greenpeace have NO RIGHT to board a private fishing vessel and demand to conduct "a peaceful search". The next day they could come knocking on my (or your) door and demand to conduct "a peaceful search" of the house for drugs or whatever takes their fancy!!!!!! In fact nobody has that right except the police and with a search warrant.

Manuel Scicluna

Jun 22nd 2009, 21:59

This is 100% arrogance to trespass into others property without the warrant. If there was something suspicious the authorities should have been informed. Trespassing is a crime and I hope that the police will take action against those people.
Whilst i hope there should be more frequent inspections for any illegal fishing OUR legal authorities, arrogance should be thrown off the sea.
Well done fishermen

Johnny Xerri

Jun 22nd 2009, 21:58

@Micheal Vella

Fishing and hunting are the same, just diffrent species.
Hunters eat the birds they catch (even if they happen to stuff them, the flesh can still be saved & eaten, apart from the fact that game birds are not stuffed)

@ all

So greenpeace got it wrong, how come, they were so sure they took the law in their own hands? Their goes credibility of environmentalists!!!

As I keep questioning NGO's please answer:

1. How are you funding your operations?
2. What salaries do your staff, managers and directors get?
3. What qualifications have you got & if your organisation was disolved would you easily find emloyment?
4. Why don't you ever show your audited accounts, on your website?
I always ask these questions because for me these people are after a well paid job (paid by ingnorant brainwashed people) & seek the limelight to retain their job. Please prove me wrong.

Kenenth Camilleri

Jun 22nd 2009, 21:52

While i adhere to Greepeace's idealogies I don't adhere to their methods. I think GreenPeace Headquarters should teach their fellow activists some basic prinicpal rules when engaging protest especially in territorial waters and even more on the jetty. That was not a peaceful protest.

Joe Aquilina

Jun 22nd 2009, 21:52

@ Charles agius

Ma nafx kif bniedem malti jista jikteb b'dak it ton. Allura jekk tkun fdarek u jigi bniedem u jidhollok mil bieb, thallih diehel jew tqactu l-barra? Jien ghandi simpatija ma GP imma mhux meta jaghmlu dawl il busullotti sempliciment biex jigbdu s-simpatija lejhom. Kellom kollox ippjanat sahansistra kienu lesti bil video camera halli juru lid dinja x'inhuma jaghmlu. Gara ezatt dak li stennew u xtaqu. U baghtu mara fuq id-dghajsa bi skop ukoll. Wara urew il-video lid dinja biex taparsi ara ahna qed inharsu t-tonn u hadd izjed.
Ghalija dawk IPOKRITI.

Dennis Zammit

Jun 22nd 2009, 21:51

What right do Green Peace think they have to board a private owned vessel. The local police and other authorities should take legal action against them.

A note to the vessels' owners/captain . . . . if you need help, I will be willing to come and throw a couple of Green Peace activists back into the sea.

victor vella

Jun 22nd 2009, 21:37

They broke public peace and order, risked injury to themselves and other, boarding a boat ilegally, and why did they choose that particular boat?did they have any information which the fisheries deparment didn't? why didnt they report the boat to the police for immediate action, or was this just a prank by some no good idiots who want to have fun by takeing it to the max? why doesnt green peace go and save the seal which are brutally killed in the most obscene way.Why don't greenpeace activists go to Sudan and try to convince the goverment there to stop it atrocities.Why don't they protest against the invasion of muslims into Europe.

I Laferla

Jun 22nd 2009, 21:35

Greenpeace are not above the law and cannot step on other peoples property! So it was good that poeple on board the fishing boats protected their property. Greenpeace your war for your ideals is not peacful! Punto e Basta! jekk tifhmu bit-taljan. Do you wage war against Abortion / Eutanasia etc etc etc. Go to Iran / Zimbabwe / Somalia and fight the corrupt governments there and guerillas u mela iddejqu lil min irid jaqla hobzu bil-kwiet!

Chris Finch

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:54

I have just watched the attached video and witnessed a large thug repeatedly punch a small woman in the face. As far as I can tell, the woman had just placed a hand on the railing of the boat.
This has all been captured on tape and in the public domain. In no civilised country in the world could you call this self defence.
I hope the police have seen this video and prosecute this man. Or are the fishermen untouchable like certain other sections of Maltese society?
This is truly sickening and will undoubtedly be shown around the world.
Once again the Maltese shoot themselves in the foot with their hot-headed attitude. I am only assuming that the tourism industry is no longer a priority to the Maltese as this will do incredible damage to it.
Also to the hunting fraternity defending these thugs, you are really showing your true colours when it comes to conservation. Isn't it about time you drop the pretence and remove the word conservation from your club name?

Kevin Francica

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:47

So, will these 'activists' be prosecuted for trying to board this fishing vessel illegally? isn't this tantamount to piracy? Do they target Malta because they think that they could flout the law without being prosecuted? I am all out for controls, but these should be carried out by the relevant authorities and not by GP.

MARK MIFSUD BONNICI

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:45

Paul Smith

I have connected all the dots log ago and have come to realize that dots, like those comparable to tiny Malta, definitely do not cause the harm you refer to. On the contrary it is the very big dots or more appropriately the large blobs that cause all the environmental damage.

So please explain why Greenpeace decide to protest in the small dots and keep well away from the large blobs?

I would rather leave the saving of our planet and its still plentiful resources to the experts rather then be influenced by a few hotheads claiming they have a God given right to interfere and trample over private property often leaving empty handed as in this incident.

If you beg to differ that's your prerogative. But i consider Green Peace as being irrational and total extremist. This can also be confirmed by many of their ex members.

Sylvana Zarb Darmanin

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:45

Seeing that many other individuals commenting below chose to mention hunting, one wonders why Mr Michael Vella chose to only attack me personally!!!!!!!

r sammut

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:44

It behoofs me to which lengths some Nationals go to uphold foreign NGOs ideals; GP, CABS RSPB, those who tarnish the Maltese ego! Even after a declaration of finding no tuna, the Malta patriots still persist to praise the GP illegal behaviour!

Somebody said GP has nothing to hide! Excuse me but who went to check who? What if somebody forces himself to search your property would the you still feel so free to patronise the action?

Franco Farrugia

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:41

@ M. Debono: Sir, you can read all the comments below and like balanced people who truly should be making up civilised society, you can judge for yourself who is the 'extremist' and who is, in fact, trying to curb the truth.

Victor testa

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:33

Very funny green peace!!!!!!. You are driving a 200 HP mercury, running on water ux not petrol????? jew??? Go to your country and let the Ec commision plus the responsible authorities do their Job in case of a breach.

Anthony Formosa

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:31

Greenpeace should be held accountable for the damage made to Malta, it's so typical that all massacres happen here in Malta whether its fish or birds, there is something in common here and the government must investigate. We are sick and tired.

Antoine Grima

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:24

I fully agree with Christopher Galea. Anybody involved with shipping knows that boarding a vessel is only allowed with the approval of the Master of the vessel unless he is an authority. I am amazed that Greenpeace were allowed inside security controlled areas. Local Authorities please note that Malta Ports are classified as Level 1 security. The attack by Greenpeace will infringe this ISPS code.
To have individuals board vessels unauthorized, as the video shows, is unlawful and the local authorities ought to have acted promptly to stop this.
The vessels' crews could have triggered their "piracy attack" apparatus which would have sent signals to their authorities - for piracy attack inside a European Port!

By the way, Christopher, should you need assistance in examining your neighbour's underwean, please give me a call.

Chris Finch

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:22

People who resort to violence show themselves to be unworthy of being classed as civilised human beings.
Those who defend their actions also place themselves in the same category.

Sylvana Zarb Darmanin

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:22

Mr Michael Vella, I am glad to see that my comments irritate you! Are you expecting me to obtain your permission as to which topic I might comment on?

Honestly, your comment is quite confusing, namely:

1. Are you aware what "game" means" I believe not as you would not have commented the way you did.

2. Trespassing onto private property is illegal. Are you saying that GP have any divine right to trespass?!

Sir, you appear to be in a confused state of mind. I am sure you have not understood my comment at all.

Notwithstanding that it is not to your liking, I intend persisting in campaigning against extremists, be they BirdLife, Greenpeace or others who present non-factual arguments against different Maltese citizens. As for your comment "people might start paying attention to what you write rather than laugh at it! ", well, this shows that my comments, far from making you laugh, have irritated you! That pleases me immensely!

Finally, your level of intelligence has precluded you from attacking the argument and not the writer? So much for gentlemanly manners!!!

Sylvana Zarb Darmanin

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:08

Mr/Ms G Debono, have you really read my comment?! I honestly do not think so, or else you failed to comprehend it. Have you read the extremists' comments below?! Well, you are so blindfolded that you have missed the point, Sir / Madam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Carmen Borg

Jun 22nd 2009, 20:01

Under no circumstances should violence take place, however Green Peace has no legal authority to enter into someone's property without consent, and the owners of the boat was protecting his own property.
They should understand that they are not above the law, and the owner of the vessels might take legal actions against this person for actually going on board as was seen in the video and on the Italian news.
The intruder and Green Peace representatives should stop and think before acting irresponsibly; how would they feel if an intruder breaks into their place. I am pretty sure they would do what it takes to protect themselves and their property.

Charles Agius

Jun 22nd 2009, 19:57

Qieghed niktteb bil-Malti ghaliex ma' rridx li din tinqara mill-barrani ghaliex ma'rridx nuri x'poplu ahna - poplu njorant u minghajr ebda rispett la ghall-annimali, ta'l=art u tal-bahar kif ukoll ghan-nies bhalna. Kont ixxokkjat u mmeraviljat waqt l-ahbarijiet tas-seba' ta' fil-ghaxija fuq ir-RAI 3. L-individwu li barra li beda' jsawwat lil dik il-povra mara beda jidghi. Nittama li l-pulizija tiehu passi dixxiplinarji kontrih a li ma' jsibx xi qaddis jidhol ghalih. Insewhom il-voti u hud passi - kemm il-gvern kif ukoll l-oppozizzjoni. Inutuli li nippromotjaw Malta mall-barrani - huwa l-parlament (gevern u oppozizzjoni) li jridu jghamlu d-doveri taghhom - jekk le se nispiccaw ANARKIJA u kulhadd jghamel li jrid.

QUMU MIR-RAQDA U GHAMLU XI HAGA GHALL-PAJJIZNA.

Ahna c-cittadini onesti rridu nghixu fil-paci u ma niguwx ittimbrati ma din il-kwalita' ta marmalja.

Nispera li ma' jkunx hawn xi turist jew barrani li jaf jaqra bil-Malti ghax din tal-misthija.

Paul Smith

Jun 22nd 2009, 19:47

MARK MIFSUD BONNICI has no clue whatsoever of the fundamental fact that when and if he has children and when they grow up he will be moaning that there are no fish in the sea. I am sure he is a good person, but he needs to realize that we are raping the planet at levels never seen before in human history - this is leading to total unsustainability in: *Population *Energy resources *food resources *which has created a situation where our resource backed banking system is not even working anymore. Time to start to connect all the dots Mark!

brian grech

Jun 22nd 2009, 19:38

I assume that tuna fishing is controlled by the EU and the govt. is monitoring the whole process. Can I walk in the greenpeace office,ask to have a look through their files and try to break in if I am turned away? I would guess not!!!!! If it were someone's house they were trying to break into, I'm sure no one would think of defending their actions and everyone would fully support any actions taken by the owners to defend their property. Simply because they have what they deem to be a just cause doesn't give them the right to infringe others' property. If they suspect any wrongdoing/law infringement they should have reported the matter to the authorities.

Michael Vella

Jun 22nd 2009, 19:14

@ Sylvana Zarb Darmanin

Nowhere in the article is hunting mentioned, so please keep your comments defending hunting to an appropriate blog. Hunting for fun and fishing for food are two completely different stories. However laws must be resepcted in both practices and if anyone (Maltese or Foreign) want to expose the law being broken i am all in favour of it.

As for your previous comment regarding the prosecution of the fisherman who assaulted the GP activist, please explain where exactly he is defending himself and from what exactly? Did you seee any aggressive behaviour by the GP activist? or do we live in a different world and what you see is not what the rest of us see. Having said that the GP activist should also be prosecuted for trepassing. Or didn't you see that either?

Finally, it's people like you that tarnish Malta's reputation. You are completely brain washed by the pro hunting lobby and fail to recognise fiction from fact. When you finally come up with something objective to say people might start paying attention to what you write rather than laugh at it!

And now i can expect an entertaining reply...looking forward :)

MARK MIFSUD BONNICI

Jun 22nd 2009, 19:12

Malcolm Borg

So according to you Greenpeace are the saviors of our world. So let them board any ship they want, enter private property, feature in World news and then as in the case of Malta turn up empty handed.

If as you say you are happy with inviting them on board your boat. I totally agree. But the boat they wanted to board certainly did not send them an invitation.

That explains the punch they received in what they termed as a "peaceful inspection".

Did you hear about the Greenpeace captain that got shot trying to stop a Japanese whaler. Was this another of their "peaceful inspections"?

Maltese fishermen do not use indiscriminate methods of fishing for tuna. Consequently Greenpeace should protest in a country that does. Their coming here only shows their arrogance at picking on a country that seems petrified opposing anything.

Their being here is a symbolic gesture aimed at other countries. Other countries where they would not dare carry out similar filth.

charmaine mangion

Jun 22nd 2009, 19:12

did the GP had a warrant to go on the boats??? even policemen have to get a warrant before doing a search let alone GP!!!!!!!!!!

Johnny Xerri

Jun 22nd 2009, 19:07

I have nothing against conservation & if needs be banning.

I would gladly accept a ban on springhunting, or the removal of a certain species due to its conservation status.

I would also welcome a ban on tunafishing if conservation is at stake.

However, this has to be backed by proper scientific studies, not GreenPeace or BirdlifeMalta, demands.

Also a ban has to be there for all not just Malta.

Hunting & fishing goes all over the world.
Even in the EU during spring, Spain hunt quails (the same quails the Maltese want to hunt in just for 30days in spring)365days a year & in the UK one can legally kill raptors

http://www.shooting.sh/shoot_quail_span.shtml
http://www.shootinguk.co.uk/news/341596/New_guidance_to_help_control_protected_predators.html
People should see what is happening all over & not just in Malta
http://www.sportinggun.co.uk/news/252235/Police_fail_to_tackle_wildlife_crime_across_UK.html
& how other governmnets react
http://www.shootinguk.co.uk/news/342137/Police_to_stop_monitoring_hunts_after_new_guidance_issued.html

Can the anties explain why:
1. Ban hunting or fishing in Malta when the activities go unabated in the rest of the EU?
2. Go for a ban which is not scientifically proven?
3. Don't they back their claims with scientific backing & not sensationalism?
4. Don't they publish their accounts, wages, and how they get their funding?

1st hunting, now tuna, whats next?

&they-ended-proven-wrong-in-the-end!!

Christopher Galea

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:59

" Greenpeace said its activists were attacked when they attempted to carry out "a peaceful inspection" of the Spanish fishing vessel "

Since when are Greenpeace authorized to carry out inspections on vessles? They should get arrested for boarding a vessle coming from outside EU territories before the clearance from Customs. What powers do they have? If this is acceptable, then the next time my lovely neighbour comes home, I will claim to be an environmentalist and inspect her underwear just to make sure it is not made from some protected animal skin!!! Dawn min jahsbu li huma, xi super heros jew!!

Franco Farrugia

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:55

As a Maltese citizen, I apologise to the Greenpeace activists for the disgusting behaviour they were submitted to. Did you notice that man dressed in a red t-shirt, showering blows at that activist? How can you condone such behaviour?

Muscat.Pat

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:49

The massacre and depletion of Tuna stock is attributed to Spanish, Italian, French and Japanese large fishing boats. The locals hardly ever catch 40 throughout the season.
Between Malta and Libya there are over 180 miles of sea and space; enough to unload tons of illegalTuna on any factory ship!

Ronnie Gauci

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:45

A bunch of man should never hit a woman in that manner, justice has to be made here both for violent behaviour and also for illegal fishing, if I'm not mistaken right now the fishing season for tuna is closed. That's why all that panic not to let anybody on board.

bryan sullivan

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:44

to err is human...to persist in making fools of yourselves is diabolical. we really do not mind you of greenpeace posturing . what we mind is baseless accusations. we now await prosecutions against those who went prepared in red (or orange)overalls and helmets and who trespassed on private property provoking an affray.

Tonna J.

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:39

In my earlier contribution I forgot to add that if bluefin tuna stocks are depleted I will be the one to suffer, as the fishermen will try to catch me then (because of my surname).

simon sullivan

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:29

now lets hope (although we all know it won't) there will be legal proceedings taken by the police against whomever boarded vessels without authorisation and yet again tarnished Malta's image for no other reason than GP exposure.

Unfounded accusations should be, at the very least followed by an unreserved apology.

MARK MIFSUD BONNICI

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:25

Franco Farrugia

Can you find one instance were I condoned illegal hunting?

"It's people like you who irritate honest, law-abiding citizens who come to Malta to enjoy themselves" HOW MIGHT I ASK? BY PRACTICING HUNTING IN A PERFECTLY LEGAL MANNER.

Yes Mr. Farrugia my hunting does irritate you and probably a few foreigners that oppose hunting. But I can assure you that your irritation has become chronic ans will remain so.

Legal hunting is here to stay no matter how irritated anti-hunters, even those that occasionally eat meat as long as it not shot, feel about it.

You see Mr. Farrugia extremists have no place in civil society and that includes yourself and the fools from Greenpeace.

Anything legal can and will be practiced no matter how much it irritates you. That's because rational people realize that the anti hunting moans of the few fools do not justify banning legal sustainable hunting or fishing for that matter.

So if you want to make yourself useful why not join Greenpeace the "idealists". They leave tomorrow, or so I hear.

A Grech

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:24

Morale of the story - Maltese can surely throw some punches

G.Debono

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:24

Sylvana Zarb Darmanin
Before you excite yourself too much with statements such as NO ILLEGAL TUNA FOUND"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. Wow that's a whole lot of of exclamation marks miss, you might want to read the article again - since no where is it stated that GP said that there is illegal tuna on board. They just asked the boat owners what they had on board when they suspected they might have tuna on board.

Peter Williams

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:21

Well I say and hope that the justice dept will act according to law and punish those illegal pirates who tried to embark those fishing boats without permission,we are not living in the third world,where everyone tries to take the law in his hands.These GP are extremists same as what happens in third world countries.
The Fisheries Department in a statement in the afternoon said that the boats had not been carrying any illegal tuna. The department said it was improving its administrative capacity through the engagement of more inspectors and over the past few days it acted to ensure that the national tuna quota was respected.

Keith Davis

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:19

KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, GREENPEACE!

WE ARE ALL BEHIND YOU, IN SUPPORT TO OUR ENVIRONMENT AND AGAINST MONEY MAKERS AT ALL COSTS.

Vince DeBono

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:15

@ Dear Carlo Laurenti

It was a Greenpeace Protester who climbed on Auberge de Castille and snapped a piece of Historical Sculpture .... was it ten years ago roughly?

Look at Tuna migration in the Med. As soon as the fish enter between Morocco and Spain, they are intercepted in huge numbers. By the time Tuna is near Malta, our fishermen have to contend with the pickings . If you wish to stop Tuna fishing in the Med, or anywhere, remove the biggest market from the equation - and that means Greenpeace protests in Japan. Keep me informed when that happens.

An observation on this incident: Tired workmen arrive in port and are about to knock off for some rest. Someone tries to invade their home - and it is someone who threatens their livelihood. HOW WOULD YOU, dear reader, REACT?

Sandro Zahra

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:15

in my opinion Greenpeace are doing the right thing but in the wrong way because I do not think that they have the right to perform any inspection.

Paul Borg

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:10

Greenpeace have no right to go on any other people boats.

The fisherman defended there private property and had every right to do what they did.

If Greenpeace suspected and illegality they should have reported it to the authorities and not take the law in their hands.

Malcolm Borg

Jun 22nd 2009, 18:01

I just hope that the bluefin tuna stocks will deplete in the lifetime of the present fishermen. They are probably not aware that fish are not infinite. They cannot logically connect the cause-overfishing- with the effect-depleting fish stocks. If, one day, they go out fishing and come on land empty handed...well....they shouldn't panic...they knew it would happen one day. The only solution is a moratorium. If not, we will then enjoy tuna in the aquaria to be built in Qawra. Greenpeace may choose controversial means (they do the same thing with trying to stop whaling) but if I had nothing to hide, I would invite them onboard, let them check my ship, and all parties would be happy...and Greenpeace would go back from where they came!

V Battistino

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:59

The police need a warrant to search and these activists think that for a good cause, they can just board private property ! If they preach in favour of good causes (with which I agree) , they cannot act like anarchists, however good their intentions are. Next we start doing it at liberty with any suspicion we have but we have law and order for these things. If we did the same, we could be prosecuted for disturbing public peace or for trying to breach private property !

Ernest Vella

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:59

I hope these protestors are not like the CABS....enter in private property as thinking they have a divine degree from someone...why didn't they go to protest in the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea where the massacre is truly happening....the fisherman had all the right to defend his private property....are these Green Peace so arrogant to enter private property without no one stop them.... In Spring, the German Cabs must thank God that no one was injured or shot....no one has the right to enter any private property

Sylvana Zarb Darmanin

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:58

"NO ILLEGAL TUNA FOUND"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

To all those extremists who jumped the gun: COME ON GUYS, WE AWAIT YOUR APOLOGIES!!!! Readers should be respected. Enough with your blinkered comments!

The anti-hunting, the anti-fishing and Co appear to have a common factor: NON-FACTUAL accusations!!!!!

Michele Sarlo

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:58

GP and or any other organization has no right to enter any private property. I am completely against such actions.

GP are becoming ECO terrorists breaking the law on several occasions.

David Mifsud

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:57

I love my tuna as much as the next guy BUT if overfishing is depleting stocks dangerously we all, even in little Malta, have to do the responsible thing.
If the fishermen had nothing to hide why did they refuse to say what is on board?
I think a world-recognsied NGO like Greenpeace have the right to a simple answer.
On seeing the latter part of the video it may be a major understatement to say that the fisherman in the red striped T shirt may have been "slightly overzealous" in applying his right to self defence!

Joseph Baldacchino

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:56

However harrowing the scenes shown on this video released by Greenpeace, the unlawful boarding of a vessel still constitues a crime, punishable by law. GP should know better. If as alleged the vessels were carrying unlawful catches of Bluefin Tuna, they still cannot board a vessel without the explicit permission of the captain of that vessel. Protesting is one thing, boarding a vessel without permission is another, especially while that vessel is moored inside harbour. GP are not authorised to carry out peaceful inspections of vessels moored at harbour. This is a case for the local authorities to verify whether or not the vessel was hoarding illegal catches of Bluefin Tuna.

Tonna J.

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:52

Peacefully or not, I will not allow anyone to enter my house with the excuse to find irregularities. Our fishermen did well to scare them off. Malta is for the Maltese and not for anyone else.

lgalea

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:40

o. Galea, Chris Finch
It is not the Maltese fishermen who are depleting the fish stocks but fishermen from other eu member countries and the implementation of the CFP which allows fishermen to fish in other member countries waters.

As for fish stocks destruction, millions of tons are dumped annually in the North Sea notwithstanding that they are already dead when hauled on board because they cannot be landed because they are not according to eu CFP specifications. Then more fishing has to be carried out due to the dumping. So many millions of tons of fish were being dumped that the North Sea literally stunk because of the dead fish. This is the destruction being caused by the shortsightedness of the eu burocrats who have absolutely no idea what fishing is about and just issue regulations to justify their exorbitant salaries.

Have a look at the following
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7103363.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7102241.stm
http://10000birds.com/immoral-dumping-of-north-sea-fish.htm
http://www.wildlifeextra.com/go/news/fish-dumping823.html#cr
http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/science/govt-seeks-end-fish-dumping-$1169128.htm
http://www.worldmaritimenews.com/article/Fishing/10366/dumping+north+sea+fish+immoral
http://lists.ibiblio.org/pipermail/permaculture/2007-November/029490.html
http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/nov2008/2008-11-05-03.asp
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2008/09/26102151

If that's not enough just google fish dumping in the north sea

a.dalli

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:39

Malta's fish stock can be protected if only we do not allow others to fish in our waters.

Franco Farrugia

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:34

Let us not forget that Greenpeace, with all its negative points and all, has done excellent work in sensitising people to the human-induced dangers against the natural environment. It's enough to mention the peril that they run personally in order to protect whales and dolphins in open seas, and this, against often unscrupulous men on board powerful and customised, large vessels. I repeat: they are more 'idealistic' than extremists. Well, who am I speaking to? Most of the Maltese wouldn't care one iota what happens to their next door neighbour, ... let alone to whales in the open seas!

Joe Azzopardi

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:31

Greenpeace should go to see what other countries much much bigger then us are doing to the fish, birds, mammals, and the whole world.

A tiny country like Malta should be the last on the list for Greenpeace to protest in.

c. camilleri

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:29

What right has these people to board other fishing boats without the owners permission. This like persons entering into one's residence without the owner's permission. The fishermen has all the right to protect their boat and not let these aliens board their boat. I would have done the same.

Galea. L

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:27

Franco Farrugia
While I feel that GP may protest the way they do it is in breach if the law. Who the hell do they think they are to try to board a private vessel which is private property? They could have protested peacefully on shore. Remember the damage they had done to Castille when they scaled it? As I have already said the Spanish fishermen are known the world over for their massive destruction of fish stocks, but GP acting like that is no way to act in Malta.

MARK MIFSUD BONNICI, tony miller, wally vella-zarb etc
Agree with you. If any Maltese citizen breaches our law s/he is booked. Being foreigners does not give them any more right to breach our laws and they should be booked. They have a right to protest and most of their protests have my support, but not by breaching our laws.

Mark Mifsud

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:25

"Only when the last tree has died and the last river been poisoned and the last fish been caught will we realise we cannot eat money."

laurence schembri

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:23

Please let us wake-up to reality, there`s a dangerous scarcity of Cod in the North Sea, quotas have to be met. Fishing Ports like Grimsby and all over the East-Coast of England are idle for there`s no fish to net, most fishing boats have been sold for scrap and the men are unemployed.
The anti-Greenpeace comments are rather shallow to say the least. Just think what will happen to our fisherman when there`s no more tuna in our waters. Besides, the Trawlers that GP wanted to board are foreign. The question one want to ask is; Why are they fishing in our waters? Why are they moored in our harbour? Greenpeace are doing a great job, we need to help them not judge them as some foreign busybodies. Well done GP.

Mario C. Ellul

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:20

By what right can they board vessels ? Greenpeace are not elected representatives. Are we expecting a time when they come into homes and check how rubbish has been separated? I repeat...Greenpeace *are not* elected representatives.

Sylvana Zarb Darmanin

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:17

"Hope also that whoever punched the GP activist will be prosecuted – as surely it was not a matter of self defense. " Well, if you are the same Ms J Borg who believes that private property in the countryside should be available to the public, then no wonder you come out with such a banal statement!! I wonder what your reaction will be were someone to trespass onto your property!!

"GP are not the "enemy", never have been, they are on the side of the ordinary people like me and you! " Please Mr C Laurenti keep them on your side as I do not need any nosy parkers or illegal intruders on my side!

I expect the Government together with the Police to start taking action against the NGO's whose only aim is to tarnish Malta's image and who also try to unlawfully play the 'police'. We have had CABS in April/May, now we are having Greenpeace!

Charles Micallef

Jun 22nd 2009, 17:09

It will be very interesting to see how the Minister responsible will answer this one........
He has a choice, either get condemned by the locals or by GP...
a typical lose. lose situation

Franco Farrugia

Jun 22nd 2009, 16:04

@ MMB: Greenpeace are not damaging Malta's image and neither are birdwatchers, and you jolly well know that. It's people who flout the law mercilessly, who give Malta a bad name. Why don't you carry out a survey among foreigners who visit the country, in order to find out what really irritates them? It's people like you who irritate honest, law-abiding citizens who come to Malta to enjoy themselves, andn ot Greenpeace activists. Sometimes, we need 'extremists', as you callously call them, in order to bring to light what is happening to our natural environment. Actually, you call them 'extremists' because it suits you and your cause to call them so. Probably, 'idealists' would be more suitable. It would be more in place to suggest to the Government to show its strength with hunters and trappers who flout the law. And those who do their best to protect them.

o. Galea

Jun 22nd 2009, 16:01

to many of your comments hereunder:

I cannot believe how shortsighted some people are. There is a reason for protest... and a very valid one too.

If we carry on overfishing, what will our fishermen do in 10 yrs time ????

We are depleting our resources much faster than we can replenish.

J. Portelli

Jun 22nd 2009, 15:57

@ Tony Miller

Why not sign the Green Peace petition instead to held save the whales! Next time it will be a good idea if you do some basic research before cliking on your keyboard!

http://www.greenpeace.org/international/campaigns/oceans/whaling/icelandic-whaling/ask-iceland-to-save-whales

Chris Finch

Jun 22nd 2009, 15:43

@ MMB the only people making a mockery of anyone are those that think they can continue to strip the planet of all its natural resourses without caring about sustainability.
Just because they are here now does not mean that they are picking on tiny paranoid Malta. They also protest against France, the USA, UK, Japan, Spain, Italy etc.
It seems that whenever anyone DARES suggest that the Maltese are doing something wrong, certain blinkered people cannot see the damage they are doing to thier country and the larger environment.
Illegalities in fishing happen all the time here. Last week, under the watch of the fishery inspectors, I saw juvenile swordfish being landed at Marfa, the inspector saying, ejja they're already dead.
Sometimes it needs an outside influence to effect change.

Philip Grech

Jun 22nd 2009, 15:28

If the fishing boats were coming from outside territorial waters, then they should be boarded first by the Customs and the Immigration Police. Whoever boards a vessel before these two is breaking the law.

r sammut

Jun 22nd 2009, 15:26

Does the Greenpeace trademark give rights to trespass arrogantly onto others people property and in our Grand Harbour! Is this the same right as those managing BirdLife assume?

Why are the Maltese fishermen being scrutinised by GP when our fleet is so miniscule
compared to other countries' organised purse netting fishing flotillas?

Is the tuna rounded up and brought to our fish farms by foreign fishers added to the Malta catches?

Andrew Gatt

Jun 22nd 2009, 15:06

"Under the recovery plan, a quota of 5,679 tonnes of tuna was allocated to Spain for 2008 for its fleets and trap netters, of which 5,402 tonnes were harvested. Spain’s bluefin tuna quota for 2009 is 4,117 tonnes."

@Claire Bonello....I think I'm not being paranoid enough! As far as I recall, Malta's 2009 quota is LESS THAN 300 TONS! You may argue that it's 300 tons too many.....but my point is that Greenpeace came HERE to do their posturing and demanding - not Spain, not France, not Libya etc.

Why not pick on good old tiny Malta? Easy meat. Cheap publicity. Birdlife do it. CABS do it. The RSPB do it. And now Greenpeace have climbed on the bandwagon.

D.Calleja

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:52

@J.Brownie, J.Oatmon, J.Borg and Claire Bonello

Now we have heard them all!!!

DO NOT TRY TO DEVIATE FROM THE ARGUMENT – The question here is whether the GP action was legal or not. We are not debating the validity of fishing quotas and their regulation; those things should be left to the relevant authorities to establish and enforce.

You are preaching and commending anarchy!!!

Can you please post your addresses on the Blog because I there might be a lot of people out here who suspect that you might be running some clandestine illegal operation and would like to check out your properties. I bet you would meet us at the door and show us around!!!

Nobody has the right to take the law into his hands!! What differentiates this situation from the pirate attacks carried out off the horn of Africa?!

Shame on you all!!

MARK MIFSUD BONNICI

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:42

Government will undoubtedly allow Greenpeace activists to make a mockery out of local authorities in the same way it allows all foreign "birdwatchers" to report "24 hour massacres", "anarchy and mayhem" and any other form of damaging statements.

Greenpeace are damaging Malta's image as it is being portrayed as the worst offender. The same can be said for these "ornithologists"

It about time Government acted on what the truth of the matter is all about. Malta is being targeted by these extremists since contrary to any other country, they find a willing and obliging government that even welcomes their presence and offers police assistance.

Does Government agree to such vile protests and defamatory misinformation? If not. it's about time it bared it's teeth!!

tony miller

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:41

Why is Greenpeace picking on tiny Malta,have a good look at what happens elsewhere in the EU,look at these web-sites
http://www.propertycenter.tv/blog/?p=76
http://puertogaleradive.com/blog//index.php?title=a_barbaric_whale_and_dolphin_killing_in_&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1
http://www.nowpublic.com/environment/whale-dolphin-massacre-europe-2
http://bluepanjeet.net/2008/11/22/1594/the-horrible-whale-and-dolphin-massacre-tradition-of-faroe-islands-in-denmark/

wally vella-zarb

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:27

@ J Brownie

"there is nothing wrong in having serious NGOs and responsible individuals stepping in to give a helping hand ."

Really? What about authorisation? Which legislation has given them a mandate to inspect vessels? What about the legal right to defend one's property? What about illegally boarding a vessel? This is called piracy. When a Spanish warship tried it on with a Korean cargo ship that it suspected was carrying tanks, Spain fell heavily on its diplomatic face. And this harassment was in international waters. Doing it in a country's harbours is flouting that country's law and order - apart from being an act of violence upon the country in which the vessel is registered and of whose territory said vessel is considered an extension. I would now expect the activists to be formally charged in our courts for violation of private property.

R Aquilina

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:25

"The activists said access was blocked after the captains refused to tell them what fish they had on board"

Who the hell do they think they are??

Carlo Laurenti

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:18

Guys,

Just to get a record straight, please be aware that as an ex-Greenpeace official myself, where I proudly co-ordinated the Med region for a number of years before resigning from my own accord, I can assure you that GP dod what they do merely to bring an environmental adverse matter to the public's attention - "The Right To Know" as GP put it.

May I also remind everyone of all the good that GP and other similar NGOs have done in the past to uncover what would have gone unreported incidents in the past? remember the Kronvokin oil dumping story? This was only brought to the general publis's attention thanks to GP as many other matters.

GP are not the "enemy", never have been, they are on the side of the ordinary people like me and you! GP never cause damage or harm to anyone else or property and do what they do as a result of various authorities not bothering to take action!

Carlo Laurenti

adrian aquilina

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:18

well done Greenpeace

steve busuttil

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:14

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/14/AR2006041401209.html

The problem with these organisations is that they too are individuals who can make mistakes. Read the above link to see what a great U-Turn this ex-Greenpeace activist did when weighing and really thinking about what he protested about.

Sensationalising an issue does not solve problems, and this is undoubtedly the road this issue will go down, just as what happened with Spring Hunting and all the lies that Birdlife have posted over the past few years.

Claire Bonello, Paranoia huh? Its more a case of the pot calling the kettle black if anything, once again look closer to home before pointing fingers at tiny Malta.

J Oatmon

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:13

Everyone should recognise that the sky and the sea around Malta (and anywhere actually), does not 'belong' to the Maltese or anyone.
The fish roam free in the sea, and the birds fly free in the sky - no one 'owns' them, and they are just as much Italian, French, Spanish, or African, etc., as Maltese.
When the waters around Malta are 'fished out' then the fishing boats go to fish African waters (this is happening now) - are these fish owned by Africa - No.

C.Sammut

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:08

It is my opinion that Greenpeace set in where ordinary law and order are not being effective. Questions arise - are local fisherman exporting more tuna and not making enough available locally?; are police aware of the possibility of tuna on board? was this catch intended for export?. In my opinion Greenpeace's omission is the lack of media pressure. It cannot get more peaceful than creating awareness -these blogs are justification of this. Overfishing tuna by 20 pieces for eg is nothing compared to large industry overfishing.

J. Borg

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:05

greenpeace have all my support.

Protests make a noise - but then when the controls that have been painstakingly negotiated are ignored - then direct action is a must.

But it seems in Malta we're all used to beat around the bush! I eagerly await what Pullicino and his accommodating Ministry will have to say - after the lengths they went to try and patch up the abuses by the tuna "industry" operators.

Hope also that whoever punched the GP activist will be prosecuted – as surely it was not a matter of self defense.

Joe Cordina

Jun 22nd 2009, 14:01

I am against over fishing, however NO ONE exept the authority and armed with a warrant can board a boat, the do gooders should obey the law themselves first

J Brownie

Jun 22nd 2009, 13:46

@Edward Mifsud

To my knowledge, fishermen have a legal obligation to stick to quantifiable quotas if Tuna is to remain sustainable- this acceptable the world over and Europe is especially vigilant on Tuna stocks in a special way because of their vulerbaility and the high risk of extinction thus Greenpeace activists have done nothing wrong by simply asking about the nature of the catch. What do you want ! another Dodo ?
If the fishermen had nothing to hide they had no reason to retaliate the way they did.
These comments give me the impression that some of us Maltese pretend we are not accountable to no one, as if all nature belongs to us and poor those who just dare to even question us about anything under the sun.
Thus, if the authorities are not coping to halt bad practices such as overfishing, fishing of endangered species, illegal hunting , abusive countryside developments, air-pollution controls and 101 other things where our environment is going haywire, there is nothing wrong in having serious NGOs and responsible individuals stepping in to give a helping hand .

Claire Bonello

Jun 22nd 2009, 13:45

@ Andrew Gatt, Steve Busuttil
Yes - you are being paranoid
Malta is not being picked upon or singled out for attention by American bullies. Greenpeace is an international organisation comprising people of different nationalities and it has protested in many other countries, including Turkey.....look at their website to see the organizations different campaigns and protests. There are no wild claims being made here - there is the simple fact that tuna will soon become extinct if the rate of fishing remains what it is.

simon sullivan

Jun 22nd 2009, 13:39

to all below who have ignorantly assumed any sensible person is in favour of over fishing or at the least apathetic to it, you are wrong....

but as wiser people coined the phrase two wrongs do not make a right I shall use it

GP have a just cause but in civilised countries we have laws and due processes should always be observed. Acting so arrogantly i.e. boarding ships ala barbarossa will win them and their cause no friends

Andrew Gatt

Jun 22nd 2009, 13:30

The Maltese fishing fleet, small in number and using mainly traditional fishing practices, is certainly NOT to blame for the overfishing going on in the Med.

Am I getting paranoid here, or is anyone else getting the feeling that Malta is simply a convenient target for these environmentalist groups? The same tactics as the anti-hunters......wild claims, trespassing, demands galore etc etc.

Go hassle some other country, Greenpeace, preferably one where the REAL damage is being done.

steve busuttil

Jun 22nd 2009, 13:22

isnt it about time that Malta is left alone and not picked upon like the 'little boy' at school?

Protesters from USA, go see what your country is doing in Iraq and in Guantanamo. Uk protesters, go solve your knife crime and embarrassing political situation. Australia, your country hunted aboriginal people!!!! And to take the biscuit, Lebanon, arent there enough problems in your own country?

This can easily turn out to be another situation where Malta is victimised, exactly in the same way it has been victimised by Birdlife and Co. The same lies and propaganda will be used to put Malta in a bad light with tourists etc etc to harm us.

There are several other problems in this world that need attention, whatever happens on or around tiny Malta cannot possibly have such an affect on the rest of the world!!!!!!

Claire Bonello

Jun 22nd 2009, 13:20

Greenpeace should be commended for its action to highlight unsustainable fishing
@ Edwin Mifsud - Greenpeace is an environmental organization, not one which is involved in immigration control. Are you suggesting that all associations including your local bocci club take to the high seas instead of going about reaching the aims for which they were set up?

d. borg

Jun 22nd 2009, 13:01

Greenpeace have every right to protest but they have absolutely no right to board ships. That's piracy. If the fishermen were not breaking any law, then let them be and go back to your countries.

Christopher Bugeja

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:51

If we really want to solve the unsustainable fishing issue we should use civilised ways. To my knowledge Police need a search warrant to have access to boats and their contents... Why does it seem that GreenPeace activists expect that they are above the law and automatically have the right to board boats and inquire about their contents?
If GreenPeace really wants things to change it should start communicating in civilised ways and offering real information to people... protests are a waste of energy and money and give the impression that GreenPeace only does what it does just for show, not to make a change!

r ferriggi

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:49

to mr sullivan;

you are wrong.

GP do not have anything to hide.

on the contrary,,,,it is an open secret that MANY fishermen do. it is a fact.

therefore,,,, as there is this VERY REAL threat of stock depletion of many species of fish in the mediterranean,,,, we should be happy that there is an organisation that takes this endevour.

we should favor and encourage the law abiders and not the law breakers of this world. the same applies for fishing around the maltese coast and especially spear-fishing with scuba equipment.

unfortunately,,,, this pressure has to be exerted as otherwise, the powers that be let everything go on as if nothing is wrong.

Paul Smith

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:43

yeah right on Simon

If they continue to fish like they are doing there is one thing for sure gonna happen in the next few years: No work because there will not be any fish left, our seas are slowly dying, why do you think the Med is full of jelly fish?

Joe Cassar

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:43

These courageous people deserve all out support. They are trying to save what's left of our natural heritage.

Well done.

Joh n Inguanez

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:40

Should protesters board unlawfully other's people boats? Can anyone do that? Imagine one doing that in the US and this because OF A SUSPICION that the boats may contain tuna! So much for peaceful protests.

J Oatmon

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:34

Fishermen are the same the world over - they are optimists and they believe their next catch will be a big one. Because of this they refuse to recognise that fish stocks have fallen dramatically, and will take years to recover, believing instead that tomorrow will be better.

But of course, tomorrow there will be fewer fish, not more, and while every fisherman believes he is not the problem (it is always the other guy), nothing will change.

Eventually there will be so few fish, that commercial fishing becomes a distant memory, and those who 'fished out' their seas will have to accept they were part of the problem, and it was not the actions of Greenpeace, or the government, or the fisheries minister, or the man in the street - the fishermen are the ones driving 'fish and fishing' to extinction.

Sylvana Zarb Darmanin

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:29

"One of the Americans said that when he tried to get on board one of the boats"! Isn't this a case of trespassing and thus a illegal act?!!!! Certain "anti's" seem to consider themselves above the law!

As I have always insisted, first it was hunting and trapping, now it is fishing - WHAT WILL BE NEXT?!!!!!!!!

Edwin Mifsud

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:23

@ Greenpeace

What right do you have to demand access to a sea vessel? If anything illegal was going on you should have alerted the authourities.

One of the Americans tried to force his way on the boats. So why do you call your organization greenPEACE?

Use your time better by blocking illegal immigrant's access to leave Lybia.

Brian Maloret

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:22

simon sullivan

So you are in favour of unsustainable fishing and the further depletion of limited fishing stock are you? Greenpeace are doing a great job in informing us that care about the planet that we live on about the commercial greed that still goes one despite the dwindling reserves. Any one supporting that are, in my opinion, selfish individuals who have no concern for the future and their children and grand-children. Carry on Greenpeace, you are doing a first rate job.

Mary Vella

Jun 22nd 2009, 12:18

Here we have it ,first the Maltese hunters and trappers now the Maltese fishermen.Who is next?

Galea. L

Jun 22nd 2009, 11:53

While agreeing to peaceful protests and GPs stance against the continuous depletion of the tuna stocks for which the Spanish fleet is renowned all over the world for its destruction of all fish stocks, GP activists have absolutely NO right to break our laws and to trespass on other persons property. People have every right to eject others trespassing on their property.

jacqueline chircop

Jun 22nd 2009, 11:52

fl-ahhar xi hadd qed jaghmel xi haga ! keep it up GREENPEACE.

A. Attard

Jun 22nd 2009, 11:38

Greenpeace should be made aware that trying to board a vessel is called pirating

Joss Galea

Jun 22nd 2009, 11:30

Of course he gets punched! Who gave him the right to try and get on board one of the shipping boat!

Tony Caruana

Jun 22nd 2009, 11:25

'' One of the American activists said that when he tried to get on board one of the fishing boats, he was punched, pulled by the hair and thrown overboard.''

GOOD

What did he expect flowers ?

simon sullivan

Jun 22nd 2009, 11:10

there goes any support GP might have had ... this isn't pansie UK ... protest in peace but impede people from working and they've got something very different coming to them rather than support