The Minister for the Environment Welcomes Sea Shepherd to Tahiti

Locky MacLean (center) with Georges Handerson and his daughter. Photo: Simon AgerThe Minister for the Environment of Tahiti, Georges Handerson, and his daughter dropped by the Gojira to greet Captain Locky MacLean and express his support for Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

"On behalf of all Tahitians, we welcome you to our islands…keep up the good fight," said Mr. Handerson.

Captain Paul Watson spoke to the minister on Skype during the minister’s visit to the Gojira. “The last time we were in Tahiti was in 2005, and we were warmly welcomed then as well. I am happy to see that French Polynesia continues to support Sea Shepherd’s efforts to defend life in our oceans,” said Captain Watson from the Steve Irwin.

The Steve Irwin and Bob Barker are scheduled to arrive in Hobart, Tasmania on the morning of March 6th AEST. Their arrival will mark the end of their campaign, Operation No Compromise,during which Sea Shepherd made history by forcing the Japanese whalers to an early retreat from the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary, saving the lives of over 800 whales in the process.

Captain MacLean and Minister Handerson in discussion. Photo: Simon Ager

Captain MacLean and Minister Handerson and his daughter on the deck of the Gojira. Photo: Simon Ager

Captain Watson and Minister Handerson chatting on Skype. Photo: Simon Ager

Operation  No Compromise