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Sea Shepherd, whalers trade ambush accusations

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since japan's whaling industry is a tradition it should take place in japan waters not anywhere else. and since it is a tradition why don't use traditional method to do it?

There are lots of traditions that started in one location and are now followed in many other places. And there are also lots of traditions that have embraced newer techniques and methods as time has passed.

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Loki HerringMar. 03, 2014 - 06:32AM JST

does japan has any means to breed the whales in captivity? if not why compare them to domesticated animals

That leads to the philosophical question whether raising animals in captivity is any more humain than killing wild animals living freely. We also have take into consideration the fact that wild animals are driven out fo farmland and face extinction due to loss of habitat.

since japan's whaling industry is a tradition

It is a tradition since the days when there was no such things like EEZ or territorial sea.

why don't use traditional method to do it?

It is anti whaling people that argue traditional method of killing whales is too cruel.

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since japan's whaling industry is a tradition it should take place in japan waters not anywhere else. and since it is a tradition why don't use traditional method to do it?

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does japan has any means to breed the whales in captivity? if not why compare them to domesticated animals

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Video showing the ramming by the Japanese ship is now available on YouTube.

You of course mean video showing the SSCS illegally coming between two other vessels trying to refuel.

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That's a video from 12 months ago where the BB intentionally positions itself between the vessel needing fuel and the fueling ship. The BB then turns into it.

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Seems the whalers will go home quite empty handed this year...good job.

Well with how many times the SSCS lost the whalers and had to run away, I would expect that they will have killed more whales this year than last year. That would mean the SSCS is going backwards.

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The Sea Shepards are complaining that the Japanese whalers are using tactics identical to what the Sea Shepards use. What hypocrites.

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7sky7Feb. 26, 2014 - 08:06AM JST If Japan has a legal right, then why do they harpoon whales with the big letters of RESEARCH on their ships? It's >because they know they're not research ships, they're there to kill whales, but for some reason are trying to look good.

They have RESEARCH written on the hulls because far too many members of he anti-whaling crowd are unaware of the difference between Commercial whaling and Research Whaling. The former is presently prohibited under a moratorium. The latter is authorized under IWC Article VIII and completely legal. The former is simply the talking of whales as a marine resource. The latter submits the catch data to the IWC Scientific Committee which is responsible for knowing whale populations and making recommendations upon which the IWC is suppose to act.

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Ahaha. I used to watch the show, Whale Wars. It was interesting for a while, although I stopped watching it. Well, reading this article, it doesn't surprise me actually.

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LisaScharin - The first word in this article is Militant, which says volumes right there about the bias here. Of course this article would uphold the Japanese, but there ARE laws that must be upheld.

Yes, there are laws that must be upheld. Watson is a wanted fugitive. The eco-terrorist SS brag that they have sunk 10 vessels. 11 if you count the eco-terrorist SS abandoning the tow of the Ady Gil. The FBI considers the eco-terrorist SS to be eco-terrorists. A U.S. judge said the repeated violent actions of the eco-terrorist SS are those of pirates. Greenpeace and other animal-rights organizations refuse to have anything to do with the violent eco-terrorist SS. I reject the eco-terrorist SS continued violence and lies. You support eco-terrorist SS violence as a means to achieve your shared goals.

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The fact that they are exploiting a "loophole"

They aren't exploiting a "loophole". They are following the regulations set down in 1948, about 35 years before the moratorium was voted on and about 40 years before the IWC violated the terms of their own moratorium by not reviewing species status.

How and why the IWC and CITES, etc. allows this is beyond reason!

They allow it because it is allowed by their regulations.

The mercury levels have been tested to be 85% higher than safe levels and PCB'S tested 140 times higher than safe levels!

No, actually that was meat from animals caught close to the Japanese coast. Meat from animals from around Antarctica have much much lower levels of toxins, even lower than many other types of seafood.

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It's not just the lies... it's that they genuinely believe it's perfectly acceptable to break the law... to fire flares at other vessels etc.

And that makes them good people.

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Heda_Madness -

Here are a couple of facts... and back to the article

It it illegal to fire a flare unless you are in distress. It's also illegal to fire a flare at another vessel

http://www.icrwhale.org/gpandsea-img428ENG.html

And as Zichi said earlier 'If its true, then the whalers committed a crime'

The SS trailing a rope behind to sabotage the whalers

http://www.icrwhale.org/gpandsea-img427ENG.html

As ever... the truth comes out.

Once again, the eco-terrorist SS are proven to be liars and extremely violent. I'm always amazed by the pro-violence support being given to the lies and violence of eco-terrorist SS actions.

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There are laws that need to be upheld

Firing a flare at another vessel is against the law.

Firing a flare when not in danger is against the law

Trailing a rope behind a boat to intentionally try and disable it is against the law

And that's just this year.

Killing whales for research purposes, is, within the law.

The research papers are readily available and have been peer reviewed.

So thank you for pointing out that one side is in breach of the law and one isn't.

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The first word in this article is Militant, which says volumes right there about the bias here. Of course this article would uphold the Japanese, but there ARE laws that must be upheld. The fact that the Japanese, along with Iceland and Denmark continue to slaughter these magnificent animals is absolutely unnecessary! The fact that they are exploiting a "loophole" also says volumes. SOOO I want to know-WHERE IS ALL the DATA, the audio recordings, the samples, the video and still documentation for this "research"??? There should be a library unto its self by now with all this vital information! BS!!! How and why the IWC and CITES, etc. allows this is beyond reason! The Japanese are the Militants and the offenders! They offend everyone who cares about our planet, it's health and the well-being of ALL species, they offend by selling this extremely toxic "meat" to consumers!!! The mercury levels have been tested to be 85% higher than safe levels and PCB'S tested 140 times higher than safe levels! Anyone eating this "meat" is ignorant! Yes and where are the governments in this? when lives are threatened, both at sea and in the market place? The Japanese are violating their own laws too! The convention on Biological Diversity, which they are a signatory, along with the Minamata Treaty! Just as they condoned their brutal slaughter and capture of dolphins & whales in Taiji, they do so in the open oceans. They are showing the world just how irresponsible and disrespectful they are! I thought they were "honorable" and didn't like offending anyone-guess I was wrong! Just as many "traditions" come to an end as societies evolve, this one must too! Our oceans and ALL species on this planet are threatened enough by what man has done! It is TIME to respect & honor and preserve life! NOT continue to destroy it!! I stand with Sea Shepard and commend them on doing what is RIGHT! This is a war of GOOD vs EVIL and it is clear who has the "purist" intentions!

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You mean like what's a few humpback deaths (zero) or fewer than 120 papers (more than 230)... between friends.

108 is on the ICR site, a site you've previously used to mistakenly quote from. I would say they know what's been peer reviewed.

Also you previously stated that the IWC had only reviewed up to 2005. Yet on their scientific publication list it includes some (not sure if it's all) of the papers written in 2013 which can be clearly cross referenced between the two.

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The number of peer-reviewed papers made in same period is 107

It's 108. I really do struggle to see how you can make so many accidental claims on one subject.

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leave the whales alone.I love Japan as a country but they dont treat magnificent creatures of the sea with any respect and kindnessi normally dont comment but this is abarbaric slaughter and should be banned the loopjole should be sewn up

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Australians Antarctic Territories

Currently it doesn't really exist as a result of Australia being part of the Antarctic Treaty System

as at present many species are dying out

None of the whale species Japan hunts are showing a decline in population.

has shown that some Japanese company's cannot be trusted as well

You know I heard of this one guy in Australia who told a lie, so obviously we can't trust any Australians, right?

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If Japan has a legal right, then why do they harpoon whales with the big letters of RESEARCH on their ships? It's because they know they're not research ships, they're there to kill whales, but for some reason are trying to look good. So, just write what's true, RESEARCH should be replaced with WHALE KILLERS, and they can still claim to be scientific researchers.

It is comments like this that show how anti-whaling people don't care about facts, and completely ignore anything they don't agree with.

There really is no point in going back and forth with them.

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Jamplass,

So far, if the whales being hunted are not on the endangered list and the IWC allows this practice then Japan has the legal right do keep doing what it's doing.

The fin whale and sei whale are on the endangered species list, and do get killed by Japanese whaling boats, so there are species of whale that are endangered being hunted. There are four to five species of whale getting killed by the whaling boats, each year.

If Japan has a legal right, then why do they harpoon whales with the big letters of RESEARCH on their ships? It's because they know they're not research ships, they're there to kill whales, but for some reason are trying to look good. So, just write what's true, RESEARCH should be replaced with WHALE KILLERS, and they can still claim to be scientific researchers.

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Where is the Research on whaling . What have they found out over the last 100 or more years While doing whaling. As a food source it is commercial. Used as source of materials for cosmetics and perfumes it is a commercial enterprise. Used for oils, fertiliser, pet food, or any use that makes something for profit is definitely not research. So it is truly a commercial venture that is not allowed in Australians Antarctic Territories . Why persist with the lie it is research and Say commercial Whaling. Being a commercial venture in an area that is protected from Whaling of a commercial nature puts Japan at odds with Conservation Groups that are doing a good Job showing the world that the Whalers are in fact a commercial enterprise. When Japan real needs this as a food source it wont exist any more as at present many species are dying out . The radiation cover up of leaks by Temuco has shown that some Japanese company's cannot be trusted as well. Temuco is polluting the ocean with radioactive materials even thou it was initially caused by an accident of nature they have failed to prevent it. When all of the sea food around Japan has become that polluted what are you going to replace seafood with . Whale meat. If they have not become contaminated as well.

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I wonder how brainwashed certain people have become over the whole whaling issue. So far, if the whales being hunted are not on the endangered list and the IWC allows this practice then Japan has the legal right do keep doing what it's doing. I know, it really sucks. But for Sea Shephard to continue its current rendegade activites it's only going to escalate into further violence and injury. Those of you who happily donate money to them will be indirectly responsible for this violence.

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Marcelito - Who cares where whales are hunted? Japan is not doing anything illegal, SS crew are and have been convicted of acting illegally.

Maybe my mates are just more open to try new experiences in new places and not so blinkered by extremist, irrational groups? Honestly, more than half ask to try it when they come here.

HB714 - glad you're very popular and have loads of foreign friends, awesome work.

Cleo - You've never answered the question - if whales could be killed humanely, would you still have a problem with it?

Of course Inuits never had an equal lifespan, they have always had less access to medicine etc...though many studies find they are less healthy now than on a TRADITIONAL diet.

It took me 5 seconds to find this, sure you know how to do the same - http://discovermagazine.com/2004/oct/inuit-paradox#.Uwxu5fmSwbw Note - 'Article may offend some readers as it mentions eating whale meat.'

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As I said, the Inuit were healthier on their TRADITIONAL all meat diet.

They've never had an average lifespan equal to that of the non-Inuit Canadian. If you have evidence to show that they were a race of centenarians before they discovered bread and broccoli, I'd like to see it.

Whales are killed in the same manner as halal products, by blood letting

Not that I think slitting the throats of animals is a good thing, but.....having a hole blown out of you with an exploding harpoon is 'blood letting'?

come up with a more humane process for killing an animal so large as a whale

There is no 'more humane' method. There is no humane method, and it isn't only because of the size, it's because of the environment in which they are killed. If you can't do something humanely, the obvious thing is to not do it. This seems so blindingly obvious to me, it always amazes me when people just don't see it.

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@ batmania I would hardly call people that follow and support the SS "sheeple".. However , sheeple does describe Japanese society to T!! The SS has nearly a million supporters on FB alone .. The only cause losing steam is your own!!But keep up with the blatant BS just realize most people on here aren't buying it!!Don't know how many foreign friends you have but I can guarantee I probably have a thousand times more and believe me u are way of base with your claims!!

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Nope. The video clearly shows the whaler turning deliberately into the idling boat.

Yup. The NZ investigators blamed the Ady Gil crew for accelerating into the path of the Japanese. Simple physics and math from the SSCS's own data (data they tried to destroy) show that if the Ady Gil hadn't accelerated there wouldn't have been a collision.

close quarters situation inevitable

Yup, close quarters, not collision.

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India seems below the world average of life expectancy though has the highest vegetarianism of any nation

I think there is a bit more going on there than has to do with diet.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Here are a couple of facts... and back to the article

It it illegal to fire a flare unless you are in distress. It's also illegal to fire a flare at another vessel

http://www.icrwhale.org/gpandsea-img428ENG.html

And as Zichi said earlier 'If its true, then the whalers committed a crime'

The SS trailing a rope behind to sabotage the whalers

http://www.icrwhale.org/gpandsea-img427ENG.html

As ever... the truth comes out.

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The SS IS losing support. They've lost major funding sources, no major environmental groups want any association with them and they've been caught out lying way too many times. They are a convicted criminal organisation! People now understand this, it's just a few 'sheeple' left hanging on to their ideologies.

It's a shame that creatures that are seriously threatened are not protected in any manner by SS. They go off on their 'boys own adventure TV show' to protect animals that are ranked Least Concern on the IUCN Redlist.

I never got to see the Baiji River Dolphin, no-one else will either. But that's OK, continue to support a criminal, dangerous, lying organisation that has probably done more to increase whaling groups steadfastness to their cause.

Hmmm...dinner time!

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I don't feel at all insulted to be put in the same school as level-headed zichi, far from it. I thank you for the compliment.

The full facts are clear and simple: 1) Marine mammals cannot be killed humanely and so should not be killed at all.

2) The claim of 'scientific research' is so much baloney and no one knows that better than the whalers and their supporters.

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The Japanese will deny anything when they even refuse to face up to their war atrocities especially that of the Nanjing Massacre which they insist did not happen.

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Further down:

when the two vessels were approximately 30–40 metres apart, Ady Gil increased speed from 3.83 knots to 6.74 knots. This increase in speed occurred over 12 seconds. (Something you have always denied happening)

There was insufficient evidence from the video and VDR data to determine conclusively whether or not Shonan Maru No. 2 would have collided with Ady Gil had the Ady Gil helmsman not accelerated forward.

The International Collision Regulations allowed for Ady Gil to take appropriate action when it became apparent that Shonan Maru No. 2 was not complying and was not going to keep well clear. This course of action was not taken. Rather, the Ady Gil master chose to maintain his course and speed, which allowed for the close quarters situation to develop into a collision risk.

While some of the contributing factors listed above were the result of intended acts andconscious omissions by the masters and crewof each vessel, there is no evidence tosuggest that any party intended the collision to occur. Rather, the collision appears to haveresulted from a failure on the part of both masters, and the crew of both vessels, toappreciate and react appropriately to the potential for collision.

And finally.. something that the SS supporters have denied and continued to claim the opposite... even though there is photographic evidence

Following the collision, Shonan Maru No. 2 acted appropriately to assist the damaged Ady Gil , and stood by at the request of Bob Barker .

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The Inuit have survived for tens of thousands of years (and were healthier) on their traditional meat only diet

With an average life span 10 to 14 years shorter than other Canadians. Maybe not all due to their diet, but it can't be ignored, either.

I suppose you are trying to ban all halal food as well, considering they are killed in the same manner as whales

Are you supposing that traditional halal involves shooting the animal with an exploding harpoon and then dragging it around the ocean until it either drowns or dies from loss of blood? Or are you supposing that the whales are killed by someone saying a prayer over them before they slit their throats? Either way you're wrong. (Hint - the halal certification of the factory ship is meaningless. The whales are not halal.)

I don't want an animal to suffer needlessly, I would gladly eat something killed in a more humane process.

Funny how people say that as they tuck into their we-don't-care-how-they-kill-it kujira sashimi. Lots of food is killed in a more human process.

neither the Australian nor New Zealand inquiry came to that conclusion.

The information available suggests that, when Shonan Maru No. 2 was approximately 130 metres away from Ady Gil, Shonan Maru No. 2 steered so as to alter her track line some 13o degrees starboard (that is, from about 350o(T) to 014o(T). This alteration of course by Shonan Maru No. 2 rendered a close quarters situation inevitable in the absence of either a further change of course by Shonan Maru No. 2 or a change of course by Ady Gil.

http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/AdyGil/Investigation-report-Ady-Gil-Shonan-Maru-Lo-rez.pdf

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Wow everybody were in the midst of a condescending whaling expert in batmania..Seems to me and by the looks of likes and dislikes on this thread it's the SS movement that's gaining traction!! Times change and sometimes traditions become outdated.. So u either move forward or u get left behind ..

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Ady Gil was purely SS fault, there can't be any argument - or else the SS would have sued right? But, Ady Gil (the person who gave SS the boat) sued SS over negligence. It's OK, continue to believe SS spin, they're pretty good at it.

So, if whales were killed humanely, you wouldn't have a problem? I think we need to do more research on this...

Amazing how you bring up that you know people who don't look healthy because they eat too much meat, critical much? Coming through a little too obvious in your 'superior' being status! The Inuit have survived for tens of thousands of years (and were healthier) on their traditional meat only diet. Please don't bring your beliefs into this again.

I suppose you are trying to ban all halal food as well, considering they are killed in the same manner as whales, but I'm sure you don't want to be oppressive and overbearing...right?

I don't want an animal to suffer needlessly, I would gladly eat something killed in a more humane process.

You do seem fairly critical on what others should or shouldn't be doing (eating) - and I really can't believe that you follow SS so blindly (to ignore reality), but that's your belief, just don't force it on others...

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Nope. The video clearly shows the whaler turning deliberately into the idling boat.

And yet neither the Australian nor New Zealand inquiry came to that conclusion. They did, however, question, why one of the SS map plotters which showed it's course had been thrown overboard. Intentionally I think was the conclusion.

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The Ady Gil was the fault of the SS, that's been made clear

Nope. The video clearly shows the whaler turning deliberately into the idling boat.

I prefer not to live in an oppressive society, thanks.

So do I. Do you consider abattoir regulations and animal welfare laws to be 'oppressive'? Eat whatever you like, but do it humanely.

I knew a couple of extreme vegans

..and they are relevant here because why? I know more than a couple of extreme meat-eaters, won't touch a lettuce leaf or a bean and they don't look too healthy on it. But it's their choice.

I enjoy meat, which includes whales. They are not endangered, what's the problem? Except for your personal beliefs...

Eat as much meat as you like, I won't stop you. The problem is animal welfare; it's impossible to kill a whale humanely, and the question of whether its species is endangered or not means nothing to the individual animal suffering on the end of an exploding harpoon line.

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Cleo - The Ady Gil was the fault of the SS, that's been made clear - all for media attention as well.

So, you're happy to force others to comply with your beliefs because you think you're right? Please don't tell me how fantastic you are and what I can or can't eat or do, I prefer not to live in an oppressive society, thanks. I'm happy for you to enjoy whatever lifestyle or foods you want.

I knew a couple of extreme vegans, but they only ate fruit that had fallen from the tree or vegetables when the plant had died of natural causes because they didn't want to kill any living thing, some people are like this.

I enjoy meat, which includes whales. They are not endangered, what's the problem? Except for your personal beliefs...

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Yes batmania, I am aware, thank you. That argument has been done to death. Article 8 states that Any whales taken under these special permits shall so far as practicable be processed and the proceeds shall be dealt with. Japan deals with the proceeds by chucking most of the whale overboard and taking only the meat. They got themselves halal certification, the only reason for which is the meat.

How long until they sink another one of their ships or kill somebody?

The only ones to have caused a boat to sink in the Southern Ocean so far are the whalers (the Ady Gil). The only ones to lose crew members (one to an engine room fire, one mysteriously disappearing overboard) due to incompetence and lack of due care are the whalers.

someday the Hindus will force you to stop killing cows, the Muslims and Jews will ban all pork products...

No need for force, I don't eat cows or pigs or sharks or sheep or birds or fish or.....

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Cleo, you are aware that the IWC mandates that as much of the whale must be utilized for what ever purpose (including consumption) if it is killed for research purposes? Japan can always just leave the IWC anyway...

Some good videos...I don't know if I can post the link here though?

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02-24/environment-minister-greg-hunt-seeks-more-detail-after-claims-o/5279024?section=tas

Pretty plain to see SS are not abiding by any international maritime laws...or by the court orders on them. How long until they sink another one of their ships or kill somebody?

SS are only doing this for TV ratings and money - maybe for an adventure story to tell their grand-kids as well? Sucked in anyone that gave money to them, they'll be banned in all waters pretty soon, maybe send your money to Somali pirates instead?

Whales are not endangered, if you do love whales so much, don't eat them, I don't eat shark's fin (but sharks are actually more threatened than whales). Don't force your beliefs on other cultures or someday the Hindus will force you to stop killing cows, the Muslims and Jews will ban all pork products...

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The only purpose of the research whaling is to estimate the abundance of the whale stock

The only purpose of the research whaling is to estimate the abundance of the whale stock

The only purpose of the research whaling is to estimate the abundance of the whale stock

The only purpose of the research whaling is to estimate the abundance of the whale stock

Drollery of Pythonic proportions.

The only purpose of the 'research' whaling is to bring home the (whale blubber) bacon.

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More and more people realize that SS are only doing this for media attention and money - they have a TV show to keep going! All my Australian friends who visit Japan come out to an Izakaya for whale sashimi. We've also eaten it in Canada, Korea and Norway. It's only the SS 'sheeple' who still believe the lies they're told. The IWC and ICJ both agree that whales are at levels that can sustain further re-opening and increases in whaling. 'Tim Flannery, 2007 Australian of the Year and head of the Climate Council, who for the past decade has been a surprising supporter of whaling. His bottom line is sustainability, as he told News Corp Australia back in 2007. “In terms of sustainability, you can't be sure that the Japanese whaling is entirely unsustainable. It’s hard to imagine that the whaling would lead to a new decline in population,” he said.' Prominent Australians are now supporting whaling, the Australian government really doesn't care and wish the SS would go away - especially as they are convicted international pirates. I hope the supporters of SS also send money to Somali pirates? Even Greenpeace, WWF and other environmental groups want nothing to do with SS They are reality TV stars doing this to make money, shame that their supporters are so gullible.

-3 ( +5 / -8 )

Clinton Meskanin:

remembering these 'scientifically research' only whales end up on the dining tables of the rich and famous in Japanese VIP restaraunts only

Whale is on the menu at regular little hole in the wall izakayas. It's not expensive. Certainly not elitist. I don't eat it myself, but my Canadian relatives all enjoy eating it when they visit. They also took home canned whale stew - certainly not the VIP fancy shmancy image you seem to have.

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SS acts like terrorists and should be treated as such.

-1 ( +6 / -7 )

How many whales have these pathetic whalers killed this year? I applaud the Sea Shepherd for doing what they do

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CH3Cho Scientists agree that to know the age of a whale, one needs to kill it and study the earplug. For example. http://www.nature.com/news/whale-earwax-a-time-capsule-for-stress-and-toxins-1.13750

Since it is agreed that IWC must estimate reliable age distribution of whale stocks before setting catch limits for sustainable commercial whaling, a large number of earplug samples are needed. If only anti whaling groups were less strict about the sample size, Japan would need to kill fewer whales. If they would allow the whales to die a natural death and wash up on Japanese shores then they would get all the ear plugs not to mention meat they could research and eat... But I guess if they can't spill the blood they aren't interested....

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zichiFeb. 24, 2014 - 10:18PM JST

In the 25 years since 1989, the killing of thousands of whales have produced less than 120 scientific papers

The only purpose of the research whaling is to estimate the abundance of the whale stock, that means estimation of population, age distribution and reproductive ratio of whales. So, just 1 paper is enough to justify research whaling. Other papers on zoological findings on whales are byproducts and really do not matter. You do not criticize a project based on the amount of byproducts.

Yasmin Torpelund WeaverFeb. 24, 2014 - 11:34PM JST

If only anti whaling groups were less strict about the sample size, Japan would need to kill fewer whales.

There is a trade off between sample size and accuracy. If you want to know 100% accurate age distribution of whales, you need to kill all the whales for exhaustive study, but you cannot do that. If the sample size is small, the accuracy of the data is compromised. So, here is how anti whaling groups play the game. They say "Oh, the sample size is not large enough, so we cannot accurately estimate the abundance of whale stock, and so we cannot set new catch limits for commercial whaling." That means whaling country has to increase the number of the sample. anti whaling groups should admit there is enough data to set new catch limits. The due date of setting new catch limits was 1990.

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If its true, then the whalers committed a crime.

So, I'm guessing you say the same when SS do exactly the same thing?

The amount of downvotes I got for this just goes to show how hypocritical anti-whaling people are. Well done, everyone who downvoted that proved my point. Thank you.

People need to get it through their brainwashed heads that whales aren't anything special.

Sea Shepherd has continually showed that they don't like it when the other side fights back. Just shows how spineless they really are. The same reason why they don't go near Finland and Norway. Because the people there will **** them up. The Japanese are too nice. I hope Japan keeps on doing stuff like this, escalating it even. Sink a few of the SS ships and see how they like it.

1 ( +9 / -8 )

there have been 230 peer reviewed papers since 1988.

As zichi points out, 130 peer-reviewed papers (including papers on the weird and wonderful 'fertilising cow/pig/sheep eggs with whale sperm' and 'testtube baby minke' experiments, and papers describing killing methods); but of those peer-reviewed papers, 28 used only non-lethal research data, which means there were 102 papers at a cost of over 14,000 whales. That's nearly 140 animals per paper, for papers that are mostly self-serving, 'how-many-more-whales-can-we-kill' -type self-justifications.

http://iwc.int/table_permit

http://www.icrwhale.org/pdf/appendix1.pdf

0 ( +6 / -6 )

So why did you make the initial, false claim, that they'd produced fewer than 120 papers and even fewer Peer Reviewed? When it's clear that wasn't the case?

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The vast majority of whales hunted by whalers are MINKE WHALES which, on the IUCN Red List, are categorized as LEAST CONCERN. What is the purpose of ruining these people's jobs to protect an animal that is not even close to being extinct? The SS are terrorists with no purpose in this world.

4 ( +9 / -5 )

http://www.icrwhale.org/scJARPA.html - Peer Reviewed Publications 130 http://www.icrwhale.org/scJARPN.html - Peer Reviewed Publications 93

Peer reviewed papers in detail: http://www.icrwhale.org/JARPApaper.html http://www.icrwhale.org/JARPNpaper.html http://www.icrwhale.org/Othersurveylist.html

In total there are over 230 peer reviewed papers.

-2 ( +7 / -9 )

In the 25 years since 1989, the killing of thousands of whales have produced less than 120 scientific papers and all of those haven't been published in peer review journals.

A quick Google shows that there have been 230 peer reviewed papers since 1988.

So yes, let's be honest.

0 ( +8 / -8 )

What, no video this time?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

@smithinjapan- I think Kobuta Chan meant the Japanese version of psycho as in great, super, awesome , wonderful lol..

@Kobuta Chan- actually most Australians do support the SS in fact all my Aussie buddies support them and many of them even donate to the cause.. As an American and a lifelong surfer I can tell you almost all my friends and family back home support the SS!!

0 ( +4 / -4 )

So please, where is the article that justifies the killing of thousands of whales every year?

Oh, didn't realize simple logic was so rare. Whale age is determined by ear plugs. Whale age data is needed to assess Minke whale stocks. Maths say ~1000 samples per year are required to establish a statistically significant set of age data about Minke whales.

Its only the anti whaling nations that continue to put money into researching a more humane killing method.

Actually the vast majority of the research into humane killing methods, if not ALL of it, is by the pro-whaling nations. Just like much whale research is done by pro-whaling nations.

end up on the dining tables of the rich and famous in Japanese VIP restaraunts only

Nope. Whale meat can be found on the shelves of regular ordinary stores and in ordinary restaraunts.

Yes, yes... let's listen to more non-binding 'resolutions'

The ICJ ruling will be binding.

Although since their ruling will be on an interpretation of the IWC regulations, if it were to go against Japan they could just quit the IWC and continue legally whaling.

Time for Australia to step up and shoot down the Japanese ships in defending their rights... would you have a problem with that?

Sure would. Because unlike Japan having an internationally recognized right to hunt whales in international waters, Australia does not have an internationally recognized right to shoot foreign ships in international waters.

-1 ( +9 / -10 )

Kobuta: "Sea Shepherd group is Psycho. They are obsessive with Whale."

Ummm... seems the ones obsessive with whales are those doing 'science' to test whether whale tastes better with mayonnaise or soy-sauce. That's about the intellectual level of research papers coming out of Japan's science on the issue, while the meat rots in freezers until it's force-fed to children in school lunches (with mercury high levels to boot!).

Mar044"tired of seeing this pro American do no attitude on this site, its time for japan to step up and defend their rights on the world stage."

Time for Japan to 'step up and defend their rights' in international territory? Doesn't that go against everything you just said? Time for Australia to step up and shoot down the Japanese ships in defending their rights... would you have a problem with that? or is it just that Japan can extend their borders and do anything, anytime, anywhere they want and no one else can question it? In fact, here's what I think: It's time Australia and NZ stepped up and took in the Japanese whalers for doing illegally what they are doing. The Japanese are the terrorists in this case, like it or not.

-1 ( +9 / -10 )

sea sheperd group are pirates, if you see all their videos on liveleak, they have the real videos on them ramming and doing pirate acts,

they should arrest the crew of the sea shepherd and be done with it.

tired of seeing this pro American do no attitude on this site, its time for japan to step up and defend their rights on the world stage.

1 ( +9 / -8 )

During the incident Sea Shepherd said crews in its small boats were pelted with ice by the Japanese, who also shone blinding searchlights on the Bob Barkers bridge TO ALLOW THE NISSHIN MARU TO ESCAPE.

Sounds to me the they were acting in self defense

4 ( +6 / -2 )

Sea Shepherd group is Psycho. They are obsessive with Whale. Majority of Australian peoples don't support their nut work at high sea.

2 ( +11 / -9 )

Some izakaya restaurants serve whale meat. It's nutritous, delicious, healty and not expensive. At least you should try before bashing Japan.

1 ( +10 / -9 )

Very easy to see the agenda of this website, they seem to promote one view and discourage people from airing a view that differs from they way they want the world to be seen, very often it is a left wing agenda they have in mind, maybe the mods should just go work at the UN.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

Yes!!! very good! just sink the ss ship! but... without killing anyone...

0 ( +6 / -6 )

JAPAN's Ocean Project = Whales out, Cesium in.

Glad there's a group like Sea Shepherd exposing this arrogance and madness.

-3 ( +7 / -10 )

Ossan: "Sea Shepherd are a lying bunch of criminals."

Says someone who supports criminals and claims to be a victim.

"Research whaling is allowed in a sanctuary."

Wow. I think that's the first time you've admitted it's a sanctuary! Baby steps, but still progress. Good on you.

"And why can't you wait for the ICJ ruling before going on and on about "commercial whaling"? That is the very question at the Court will be answering."

Yes, yes... let's listen to more non-binding 'resolutions'.

Yasmin: "So... if they were allowed to kill more whales, they would kill less whales?"

I know! Classic, right? Leave it to CH3CHO and Ossan to defeat their own arguments, and very quickly at that.

1 ( +13 / -12 )

CH3CHOFeb. 24, 2014 - 08:42PM JST

If only anti whaling groups were less strict about the sample size, Japan would need to kill fewer whales.

So... if they were allowed to kill more whales, they would kill less whales?

lolwhut?

0 ( +4 / -4 )

Sea Shepherd are a lying bunch of criminals. There are videos out of SS's actions, running cable in front of the whalers and firing flares AT the whalers. It is SS who is in violation of the US court order to stay 500 yards away from the whalers.

cleoFeb. 24, 2014 - 03:16PM JST "What are the alleged charges?" Commercial whaling in a sanctuary, you know that.

Research whaling is allowed in a sanctuary. But you know that. And why can't you wait for the ICJ ruling before going on and on about "commercial whaling"? That is the very question at the Court will be answering.

-4 ( +11 / -15 )

Watching whale wars on discovery channel, i know using ropes and cables to jam the propellers are a common tactics used by Sea Shepherd, so why are the whalers the only one at fault. Common hypocrisy.

5 ( +9 / -4 )

Sea Shepherd said two Japanese harpoon ships attacked their Bob Barker vessel ...

I suspect that this is intentional...

Japanese harpoon ships did NOT attacked, "were" attaceked with steel cableby SS. Yu-shin-maru, the one of Japanese ships just warned that SS had disturbed its investigation, and counterattacked with water cannon.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

"But officials in Tokyo in charge of the hunt said it was their ships that had been ambushed."

yeah, because they were there! Please! they had the press statement ready after giving the orders.

1 ( +8 / -7 )

Its a fact that there is no consensus on whale numbers. Until there is a consensus it would be unreasonable to allow a resumption of commercial whaling.

Exactly. That's why they were supposed to have a comprehensive review in 1990 - to determine if the moratorium was having an effect. It's also why the testing clause/loophole exists - because in order to determine the whale stocks, they have to be tested. The review in 1990 was supposed to be used to create the consensus, but since some countries blocked the review, there is no consensus on whether or not whale stocks have been returned, and the loophole on testing is still open, allowing Japan to continue whaling.

0 ( +5 / -5 )

remembering these 'scientifically research' only whales, end up on the dining tables of the rich and famous in Japanese VIP restaraunts only...... probably have shares in TEPCO as well.....

-2 ( +4 / -6 )

CH3CH0, "It is the obligation of IWC to finish the assessment of whale stock and set new catch limit by 1990. IWC could not fulfill its obligation because some anti-whaling countries unreasonably object to scientific findings of whale stocks. "

Unreasonably in your opinion. Its a fact that there is no consensus on whale numbers. Until there is a consensus it would be unreasonable to allow a resumption of commercial whaling, especially without some level of surity that numbers would be sustained. Then of course there's the issue of cruelty. Its only the anti whaling nations that continue to put money into researching a more humane killing method.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Thanks for the restraining order link, CH3CHO. Too bad this can't be enforced because both the whaler and SS tempers are rising. It's all fun and games until...

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Take out the words perilous and potentially dangerous and what you have is a pretty ordinary situation given the circumstances.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

The IWC's moratorium requires that blah blah blah

-and says nothing about thousands of whales being 'researched' onto dinner plates.

Scientists agree that to know the age of a whale, one needs to kill it and study the earplug. For example. http://www.nature.com/news/whale-earwax-a-time-capsule-for-stress-and-toxins-1.13750

One blue whale, giving up its ear-based secrets after an accidental death. Hardly a pointer to the need to deliberately subject thousands year after year to an inhumane death. So please, where is the article that justifies the killing of thousands of whales every year?

Am I the only one who finds it rather hypocritical that Western countries routinely slaughter millions of cattle (and other mammals) every year for our burgers

But but but.....the whales aren't being killed for food, it's all in the name of scientific research. Honest. The people who eat whale meat do it only because the IWC forces them to. Honest.

7 ( +13 / -6 )

the fact remains if this is for scientific research then you need only destroy One specimen in order to research it

No the fact is to do research you need multiple samples because any one specimen could be an outlier. The ICR has published their justification for the number of samples they require. Have yet to see anyone claim their maths are wrong.

Get back to us when you find an article that justifies the killing of around over a thousand whales every year for organ samples.

Sure, is right now soon enough?

The IWC's moratorium requires that "This provision will be kept under review, based upon the best scientific advice, and by 1990 at the latest the Commission will undertake a comprehensive assessment of the effects of this decision on whale stocks and consider modification of this provision and the establishment of other catch limits."

To assess whale stocks requires data on their age structure, thus requiring data on ages which are obtained from earplugs. Scientists agree that to know the age of a whale, one needs to kill it and study the earplug. For example. http://www.nature.com/news/whale-earwax-a-time-capsule-for-stress-and-toxins-1.13750

This assessment would also require data on fertility, reproduction rate, age of sexual maturity and many other factors many of which require the study of the whales oirgans.

-6 ( +5 / -12 )

DisillusionedFeb. 24, 2014 - 08:46PM JST

ALL countries in the Southern Hemisphere stopped hunting whales regardless of the economic benefits and, as a result, there are large populations of whales in the southern oceans.

Australia or New Zealand does not own the water in the Southern Hemisphere. Their territorial sea is limited to 12 nm from their coast and their EEZ is limited to 200 nm from their coast. High seas belong to no country, and any country is free to use high seas.

Why should Japan have exclusive rights to hunting them?

Any country should be given the catch limits when the commercial whaling restarts at IWC.

Japan is researching the viability of commercial whaling ONLY for Japan.

Every member country of IWC including Australia and New Zealand must take part in the setting of catch limits for commercial whaling as agreed at IWC. It is an obligation of a member country. If a country is not interested in whaling, the country should leave International Whaling Commission.

-10 ( +7 / -17 )

Yeah CH3CHO, the other countries did create the whale populations by not hunting them. There is economic benefits for all countries that hunt whales, however, ALL countries in the Southern Hemisphere stopped hunting whales regardless of the economic benefits and, as a result, there are large populations of whales in the southern oceans. Why should Japan have exclusive rights to hunting them? Or are you suggesting all countries should hunt whales? This is where the real problem lays. Japan is researching the viability of commercial whaling ONLY for Japan. What makes the Japanese so special? They are a pissy little island with no resources and feel they have the right to plunder anything they like for their own selfish needs. Why aren't they putting all their efforts into restoring the whale populations I the oceans around Japan? They are still hunting them and, as far as they are concerned, if there are whales (or dolphins) they should be hunted. The Japanese had no hand in creating the whale populations in the southern oceans and have depleted the populations of whales in their immediate oceans. Therefor, if Japan intends to commercially hunt whales in the southern oceans they should be made to compensate the other nations who do not hunt whales.

-4 ( +8 / -12 )

Dawn StackalisFeb. 24, 2014 - 08:19PM JST

if this is for scientific research then you need only destroy One specimen in order to research it...

Scientists agree that to know the age of a whale, one needs to kill it and study the earplug. For example. http://www.nature.com/news/whale-earwax-a-time-capsule-for-stress-and-toxins-1.13750

Since it is agreed that IWC must estimate reliable age distribution of whale stocks before setting catch limits for sustainable commercial whaling, a large number of earplug samples are needed. If only anti whaling groups were less strict about the sample size, Japan would need to kill fewer whales.

HB714Feb. 24, 2014 - 08:06PM JST

I recommend u go to the Sea Shepard's FB page where they have video and photographic evidence of the confrontations with the true Eco terrorist the Japanese whaling fleet!!

Where can I find the footage of February 23 attack? I want to know if SS is keeping restraining order issued by US court.

-11 ( +6 / -17 )

I wonder what Bob Barker would have to say about his association with Sea Shepard?

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Wow it's so nice to see everyone believing what they read... Each side will spin it to suit there cause...the fact remains if this is for scientific research then you need only destroy One specimen in order to research it... If these whales are migrating together chances are they all consumed to same food, swam thru the same oceans and were subjected to the same conditions of environmental change.. One whale would suffice for research....

3 ( +6 / -3 )

DisillusionedFeb. 24, 2014 - 07:13PM JST

The Japanese travel to the other end of the earth to plunder a fish population created by 20 other countries and give nothing back for them?

Japan operates in the high seas. What do the 20 countries do for the whales in the high seas? Can they quantify their contribution to the whale population in a scientific manner?

I think your argument rather new and interesting. It follows that it is OK to hunt whales if Japan pays for the costs of the contribution to the whale stocks by other nations.

-14 ( +5 / -19 )

Good to see them get some of their own medicine, seems they don't like their own tactics used on them.

Give em some more !!

-2 ( +6 / -8 )

@ Heda don't know where u get ur information from probably a Japanese news site no less .. Hardly a believable source of information..Being that Japanese freedom of press is ranked 53rd in the world and is expected to fall even lower in the future.. Thats like I trying to sell me on the idea that Fukushima is a safe place to live and eat ..I recommend u go to the Sea Shepard's FB page where they have video and photographic evidence of the confrontations with the true Eco terrorist the Japanese whaling fleet!!

If Japanese wish to whale they should do it on their own waters.. Oh that's right they already raped their own waters of whales either that or the whales got smart and decided to stay away.

5 ( +11 / -6 )

Get back to us when you find an article about scientists taking whale organ samples from space.

Get back to us when you find an article that justifies the killing of around over a thousand whales every year for organ samples.

4 ( +13 / -9 )

Japan does not need to hunt whales! Their so-called research is only to convince the IWC that commercial whaling is viable. The viability only relates to economics and not the whales. There very well may be sufficient stocks of minki whales for japan to hunt them commercially, but the only reason these stocks are there is due to the conservation efforts of many other countries. If Japan is so deadset on hunting whales commercially they should be paying the countries that created these commercially viable populations for Japan to plunder. The Japanese travel to the other end of the earth to plunder a fish population created by 20 other countries and give nothing back for them? Yet, they'll call sea Shepherd pirates? Seriously? The argument of the non-recognised whale sanctuary is a bloody farce! It's only non-recognised by the countries that want o exploit it - Japan!

-2 ( +8 / -10 )

Marcelito

"If true, ..." "Now that the J-ships are doing the same, ..."

So you concede it may not be true. But then in the next sentence you assume it is.

I think Zichi has it right: "If its true, then the whalers committed a crime." Yes, Certainly. And based on history, I will always assume the SS are lying unless there's evidence to the contrary. So, for now I'm assuming it's not true. But I'm open to evidence.

-2 ( +5 / -7 )

The whalers always say "Whaling is a Japanese tradition" but the world (hopefully) evolves every day and a lot of old "traditions" have been abandoned... Do we still see people in the "stocks" being pelted with rotten eggs, tomatoes, etc. ? It was a very old tradition but AFAIK, it doesn't exist anywhere in the world any more...

9 ( +12 / -3 )

wavelengthFeb. 24, 2014 - 06:20PM JST

Exactly. http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2012/12/17/12-35266.pdf

UNITED STATES COURT OF APPEALS FOR THE NINTH CIRCUIT

Defendants Sea Shepherd Conservation Society and Paul Watson, and any party acting in concert with them (collectively "defendants"), are enjoined from physically attacking any vessel engaged by Plaintiffs the Institute of Cetacean Research, Kyodo Senpaku Kaisha, Ltd., Tomoyuki Ogawa or Toshiyuki Miura in the Southern Ocean or any person on any such vessel (collectively "plaintiffs"), or from navigating in a manner that is likely to endanger the safe navigation of any such vessel. In no event shall defendants approach plaintiffs any closer than 500 yards when defendants are navigating on the open sea.

-6 ( +8 / -14 )

Commercial whaling in a sanctuary, you know that.

The sanctuary doesn't apply to Japan, you know that.

It's about time Japan started to catch up with modern science research techniques. Then none of this nonsense would be necessary. Scientists count whales from space http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-26075274

And if all they were researching was whale numbers you would have a point. Get back to us when you find an article about scientists taking whale organ samples from space.

-9 ( +6 / -15 )

“The propeller was caught with a rope thrown by Sea Shepherd while the hull was damaged. But no one was injured and there has been no problem with navigation."

If its true, then the SS committed a crime....

As ever, the SS steal the headlines, the truth then follows...

0 ( +10 / -10 )

SwissToniFeb. 24, 2014 - 06:02PM JST

exception from the Moratorium?

Anti-whaling countries have forgotten the long over-due promise which was agreed when the moratorium was agreed.http://iwc.int/cache/downloads/1lv6fvjz06f48wc44w4s4w8gs/Schedule-February-2013.pdf

International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, 1946 Schedule

10(e) Notwithstanding the other provisions of paragraph 10, catch limits for the killing for commercial purposes of whales from all stocks for the 1986 coastal and the 1985/86 pelagic seasons and thereafter shall be zero. This provision will be kept under review, based upon the best scientific advice, and by 1990 at the latest the Commission will undertake a comprehensive assessment of the effects of this decision on whale stocks and consider modification of this provision and the establishment of other catch limits.

It is the obligation of IWC to finish the assessment of whale stock and set new catch limit by 1990. IWC could not fulfill its obligation because some anti-whaling countries unreasonably object to scientific findings of whale stocks. I am skeptical if the moratorium is still legally binding under this exceptional situation.

-6 ( +9 / -15 )

The whalers have found a "scientific research" loophole to whale, yet are constantly being intimidated by these terrorists. Until the SS can find a way around that loophole, legally, there's no reason why their ships should be in the vicinity of the whalers' ships. If there's such a thing as a restraining order on a group or organization in International/territorial waters, Japanese whalers should jump on that opportunity. Stay 500 yards away, I say. Or get the friggin' loophole changed!

-3 ( +5 / -8 )

God Speed Sea Sheppard!

7 ( +14 / -7 )

It's about time Japan started to catch up with modern science research techniques. Then none of this nonsense would be necessary.

Scientists count whales from space http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-26075274

2 ( +11 / -9 )

Japanese people are not buying the whale meat. The scientific research excuse is just that, an excuse. Sometimes I think the whalers just get off on being total pariahs and continue whaling just to make people angry and to enjoy feeling hated. In a way, SS might be fueling their continued whaling, because the whaling itself goes against all logic.

4 ( +9 / -5 )

Let go to the beginning... Anti-whaling people are angry because, Japanese has this diet culture of eating whale meat. So Anti-whalers are consciously denying part of the Japanese culture.... isn't that some kind of human rights violation or something there?

Second, I assume they are aware what kind (what species) of whales the Japanese whalers and thus Japanese people consume? Did you know there is a healthy population of those whales (overpopulation maybe?).

Thirdly, why they don't condemn with the same force the eating of whales (and other mammals) of the Inuit, Norway, Iceland and some others??

-8 ( +9 / -17 )

Humans must get off their pinnacle of arrogance and recognize the essential value of whales.

4 ( +10 / -6 )

If its true, then the whalers committed a crime.

So, I'm guessing you say the same when SS do exactly the same thing?

-3 ( +11 / -14 )

I met met a couple of girls in the pub the other night, "You girls are from Scotland aren't you?", I said. "WALES!" they both bleated back. "Sorry, you whales are from Scotland aren't you?" I said Only whale gag I know unfortunately

4 ( +10 / -6 )

All in the name of scientific research, I suppose? That said, I don´t think I have heard of other researchers who use such robust research methods...

7 ( +10 / -3 )

Read the last 2 paragraphs

I did. They do not say anything about 'even legal experts from Australia says Japan has the case'. Not even close.

They may not be able to say frankly, but they mean Japan has the case.

Did they contact you personally and tell you what they 'meant'? Or are you simply reading what you want to read in it?

6 ( +11 / -5 )

I hope these 'activities' are only limited to 'rope-throwing' and nothing more. I understand how both sides are very patriotic and/or passionate about defending their actions, but no good ever comes from causing someone bodily harm.

4 ( +6 / -2 )

If Japan does or doesn't do something, why does someone always say, "If China or SK had or hadn't done it . . . " ?

1 ( +3 / -2 )

More proof that the true terrorists are the whalers.

-3 ( +13 / -16 )

Quote from CH3CHO's first link - These two articles do not concern Japanese whaling in the Antarctic

So it's bit pointless, no?

Quote from second link - Professor Steven Freeland says it is by no means certain that all of Australia’s arguments will be accepted

If it were certain, there would be no need for a court case in the first place....

even legal experts from Australia says Japan has the case

Nothing in the links you provide say that. Wishful thinking?

3 ( +12 / -9 )

Here are links to what Australian legal experts say about the whaling case at ICJ. http://www.crikey.com.au/2014/01/22/meet-the-us-scientists-who-are-legitimising-japanese-whaling/ At the bottom of the article.

ANU international law expert Don Rothwell said it was the first time anyone had legally challenged scientific whaling. "No one ever said this was an easy case to make before the international court," he told Crikey. Australia would have few options to legally challenge whaling any further if it lost the ICJ case, he said, describing it as "the one shot in the locker".

http://www.uws.edu.au/newscentre/news_centre/more_news_stories4/australias_whaling_case_against_japn_inherently_risky,_says_expert

Professor Steven Freeland says it is by no means certain that all of Australia's arguments will be accepted, which may leave the way open for Japan to continue its whaling activities. "There is always the chance that the Court might be persuaded by Japan that the claims made by Australia are not substantiated," says Professor Freeland.

-16 ( +5 / -21 )

Keep up the good work SS.. I will continue with my donations and following your progress on FB.. The Japanese fleet is getting their butts kicked again this year.. They may have gotten a head start last night but our currently being followed by helicopter and have no direction to escape and continue their outdated sick tradition of whaling especially in waters they don't belong in.. All of u on here calling them pirates really don't understand who the real pirates are nobody outside of Japan neither likes or supports this sick tradition for the most part ..

4 ( +18 / -14 )

i doubt these claims just like the claim that one of their boats was sunk by the whalers few years back...truth came out that they just wanted to have a publicity stunt to raise fund to buy a new boat.

0 ( +16 / -17 )

cleoFeb. 24, 2014 - 03:16PM JST

Commercial whaling in a sanctuary, you know that.

This is what you said.

The whalers are committing a crime just by being where they are.

Is "just being" same as commercial whaling? In addition, there is no agreed "sanctuary".

The case is heard at the ICJ and even legal experts from Australia says Japan has the case.

-9 ( +17 / -26 )

By employing these tactics the whalers aren't going to get much sympathy next time they're on court looking for an injunction.

9 ( +20 / -11 )

Firstly, it certainly won't have happened in the way that the SS have claimed. It never is.

Secondly, the SS REALLY don't like it when the Japanese respond in kind do they? They've spent YEARS trying to disable the Japanese whalers.

-1 ( +21 / -22 )

There is an old adage in rugby about not dishing it out if you cannot take a hit yourself. Obviously, SS don't know it. To adopt the tough military language they seem to prefer, it wasn't too long ago that SS tried to land "assault troops" on a Japanese ship in international waters. I also seem to remember them inducing ramming incidents as well. Such tactics are the preserve of Somali Pirates, not legitimate organizations.

Don't get me wrong, Japan's "scientific whaling" is one of the biggest scams under the sun, but it will be stopped through international channels, not by a bunch of clowns lead by a chap who is "known to Interpol."

2 ( +17 / -15 )

What are the alleged charges?

Commercial whaling in a sanctuary, you know that.

1 ( +19 / -18 )

cleoFeb. 24, 2014 - 03:00PM JST

The whalers are committing a crime just by being where they are.

What are the alleged charges? I know you do not like people who have different opinions from yours, but that does not make it OK to call them criminals.

-8 ( +18 / -26 )

Whilst we don't know what is really happening down there in this pristine ocean sanctuary, one thing is for certain: the poachers are being frustrated and will likely - again - fall well short of their target. The less whales slaughtered, the better.

9 ( +22 / -13 )

SS (or Sinking Ship as they also like to be called) says:

"ruthless assault", "launching their onslaught", "increasingly vicious onslaught"

Please these kinds of colourful adjectives only worsen the emotional blinding.

"protected whales", "(our actions are) completely lawful"

Hey let's just do away with the truth or facts altogether and distort things further to suit our agenda.

5 ( +19 / -14 )

The whalers are committing a crime just by being where they are.

-1 ( +25 / -27 )

Whale wars indeed.

-1 ( +3 / -4 )

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