#ShellNo Showdown Results in U-Turn as Rappellers Repel Arctic Drilling Ship
Shell’s MVS Fennica made a dramatic u-turn in Portland, Oregon on Thursday after its attempt to reach the open ocean was prevented by Greenpeace activists who lowered themselves from the St. Johns Bridge to block its passage.
Kristina Flores, one of the activists on the bridge, tweeted, “Feeling victorious! The Fennica turned around and headed back to the port. Another successful day of blockading! #shellno arctic drilling!!”
According to Greenpeace USA, the 13 climbers remain suspended below the St. John’s Bridge, along with thirteen more activists on the bridge providing support, and are prepared to hold the line as long as possible.
“The activists went to sleep last night prepared for this moment, and they were in incredible spirits hearing the support from local Portlanders below and from people around the world,” said Cassady Sharp, Greenpeace USA media officer in Portland. “The one person they really hope is listening is President Obama. There has never been a better time for our President to do the right thing and cancel Shell’s lease to drill in the Arctic.”
Meanwhile, Local KOIN Channel 6 News reported:
Click Here: Maori All Blacks Store
And some of the other immediate reaction on Twitter included:
: Shell’s Fennica is on the move and the Greenpeace activists are being told by police and Coast Guard officials that they are violating local laws and a federal injunction by impeding the vessel’s attempt to leave port
Local news outlets are covering the dramatic events from helicopters flying over the scene, including a live video stream provided by local KATU TV which showed the Fennica entering the water and heading towards the dangling line of protesters on the bridge. Watch it live.
One of the Greenpeace activists on the bridge is offering live updates via her account on Periscope, a mobile streaming service.
:
On Twitter:
:
SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT