FED: Anti-loggers have a right to peaceful protest: Garrett
15 Jan 2009 1:03 PM
Subject: FED: Anti-loggers have a right to peaceful protest: Garrett FED: Anti-loggers have a right to peaceful protest: Garrett
SYDNEY, Jan 15 AAP - Environmentalist have the right to protest the logging of old growth forests in Tasmania's Upper Florentine Valley, as long as it remains peaceful, federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett says.
Police arrested at least eight protesters on Wednesday who were taking part in a blockade to save the old growth forests.
About 150 people had walked into the forest to protest against Forestry Tasmania's road operations in the old growth forests of the valley.
Mr Garrett, who was once head of the Australia Conservation Foundation, said peaceful protest always had a place in Australian society.
"I've always said that we need to recognise that there is a place for peaceful protest in this country," he told reporters in Sydney.
"My expectation is that whatever activities people undertake they do in a peaceful manner."
He also says the Sea Shepherd anti-whaling ship Steve Irwin, which is expected to arrive in Hobart soon, has a right to refuel in Australia.
"The ship, of course, is entitled to berth and to do refuelling and any other work that is necessary," Mr Garrett said.
Japan had voiced concern that Australia was not blocking the vessel from entering the country, saying Sea Shepherd's "pirate-like" and violent actions must be rejected.
The Japan Whaling Association said both Australia and New Zealand should bar the Steve Irwin from their ports.
But Acting Prime Minister Julia Gillard dismissed the idea, saying there was no reason to ban an anti-whaling ship from docking.
AAP vpm/wjf/goc/jlw =0A
FED: Anti-loggers have a right to peaceful protest: Garrett