Home | Friday 8th April 2011 | Issue 766
CAUGHT OFF GARD
Two Gardai are under investigation this week in Ireland after they were recorded making rape ‘jokes’ in a conversation about two female Rossport protesters who they had, apparently unlawfully, arrested.
The recording was made with a video camera confiscated from an activist and left running by the sexist morons, who are heard to say “Give me your name and address or I’ll rape you” and then laughing. During the recording the Gardai also debate whether correct procedures should be followed when removing protesters from heights. The Sergeant advocates not bothering.
Meanwhile, Shell to Sea campaigners’ determined disruption of the Shell gas pipeline work continues (see SchNEWS 765). On Monday (4th) activists linked arms in a concrete tube and blockaded work on Shell’s road to the estuary for a whole day. Although Gardai turned up within the hour, they didn’t move the protesters.
Eleven hours later they were removed by IRMS security and handed to the guards, prompting a spontaneous lie-in action that continued for another hour. Campaigners have also been pulling up bog tracks laid by Shell to allow heavy machinery through to start the next stage of building. Actions are now on nearly everyday - if you’re a frustrated eco-warrior, get ya’self down to Ireland quick sharp.
* Rossport Solidarity Camp will be having a Direct Action Workshop Weekend this weekend April 9th-10th - all welcome, open to complete beginners - no experience necessary. Food will be cooked communally, donations welcome.
** Also April 30th – May 2nd will be the Rossport Solidarity Camp Summer Gathering – a weekend of workshops and actions. This will be a family friendly event with kids area.
** And then there’s the Party Against The Pipe Festival June 4th-6th celebrating over a decade of resistance to Shell’s Corrib gas project with music, circus, comedy, crafts, kids activities. Calling all performers and workshoppers - and if you can lend equipment get in contact. 0851141170 partyagainstthepipe@gmail.com
* For details and location see www.rossportsolidaritycamp.org
