At least the sun come out today! This miserable weather is
finally subsiding; we managed to do some work today, although it
takes along time to do a little in these conditions. However,
by later in the afternoon it was even possible to do a bit on
deck, albeit cowering in the shelter of the foc'sle, as the spray
shot over our heads from the foredeck.
After dinner, an impromptu discussion of boat driving techniques
and a run through some preparatory work that still needs
attention. Unfortunately, this rough sea has severely disrupted
our work schedule. Attention to detail is what makes the
difference. But there is a very experienced crew on board;
hopefully tomorrow the waves -- now dowm to three metres or so --
will be settled enough for some boat training.
The boat discussion evolves into an exchange of views on the
merits of a consumer boycott of French products. On the one
haand, the issue about nuclear testing and the development of new
nuclear weapons by the French government and military -- not a
campaign against the French people or France. On the other, it is
a form of protect to which many people can subscribe; nd also
sends a message to France about how strong the feelings of those
from other countries is on this issue. Economic leverage is also
one of the most powerful forms of pressure in modern materialist
socieites -- there's nothing like a slap on the wallet to make
some people react. Actions speak louder than words... Yes, but
as long as French people understand that the issue is anti-
nuclear, not anti-French. The debate goes on...
Alice (Richard) Leney, 18 August 1995
Update from Steph:
Tahitians have brought a case on human rights grounds against
France's nuclear testing programme in the European Commission on
Human Rights this week. They are arguing that nuclear testing in
French Polynesia threatens their right to life, and their right
to enjoy their homes and environment. The full case is expected
to be heard in the second week of September.
Meanwhile, New Zealand's case against France's resumption of
nuclear tests is due to be lodged in the International Court of
Justice (World Court) in the Hague early next week. Australia,
Nauru and possibly Denmark and the Philippines are supporting the
case.
At the Conference on Disarmament (CD) in Geneva there is renewed
optimism that after President Clinton and France's pledge to
agree a "zero" test ban treaty, that one might be concluded next
year after all. China's test this week was soundly opposed by
many countries at the CD, and there is increased pressure on
China, the UK and Russia to publicly support a fully
comprehensive test ban treaty as soon as possible -- preferably
by August 24th, when a working group on the treaty negotiations
convenes.
Meanwhile, Greenpeace has launched an appeal in Europe for a
peace flotilla to go to Paris on September 1 in solidarity with
the Moruroa flotilla. The flotilla will meet on the Seine in
Paris near the Elysee (Presidential) Palace, and assist in the
delivery of an international petition signed by millions of
people around the world opposed to nuclear testing.
Update from Alice and Stephanie - 18 August
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