Reports that Pat the Chief's boat was sunk last night

by Tim. Thu Jun 11, 2009 08:44

First, the damage to the Glangad compound makes the news, with very little news of the attack on Wilie Corduff.

And now, RTE are reporting about some arrests at Glengad, but no mention of the

You can bet that their just taking their info from the cops.

And I'm sure the cops will treat it as a mysterious accident, not worthy of comment, until such time as the Chief recovers enough to make a statement ( and he should put one on record, even if he doesn't believe they will actually investigate it.)

I hope he and Martin are okay.

by Tim Thu Jun 11, 2009 09:01

newsdesk@rte.ie

And ask them to check this out, telling them that they cannot simply cover this by virtue of relying on the Garda Press office.
The Gardai will keep this quiet by pretending that if he hasn't reported it from his hospital bed, then there's no reason to investigate.

Urge RTE to investigate, and shine a media spotlight on this part of the country.

I just sent them a short message. I'd urge you to do the same. It only takes two minutes.

newsdesk@rte.ie

by Tim Thu Jun 11, 2009 09:13

Don't just assume they won't cover it. Put pressure on them to do it.

by arty eeeeeeeeee Thu Jun 11, 2009 09:14

Two fishermen rescued off Co Mayo coast
http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/0611/rescue.html

Two men were rescued from a life raft in the sea off Co Mayo in the early hours of this morning after their fishing vessel sank.

The men issued a Mayday call at about 4.30am after the 'Iona Isle' began sinking.

The Coastguard put out a call to nearby vessels to provide assistance, and launched the Ballyglass Lifeboat and the Coastguard Helicopter from Sligo.

Another fishing vessel, the 'Rachel Mary', reached the men first and brought them to Ballyglass Pier in Co Mayo.

Gardaí are investigating the incident.

by MARGARET Thu Jun 11, 2009 09:42

Looks like THE DIRTY TRICKS BRIGADE at it again.WE all know who did it THE GARDA assisted by SHELL........
WHO is running this country/?
LOOK at SHANNON and the abuse of our NEUTRALITY.
NOW our seas are been taken over........
IRELAND AWAKE FROM YOUR SLUMBER..........

by Local Thu Jun 11, 2009 09:58

The latest news is that the boat 'Iona Isle' owned by 'The Chief' was scuppered on the pipeline route and the crew were rescued by another of the Chiefs boats.

by Suspicious Thu Jun 11, 2009 09:59

"Looks like THE DIRTY TRICKS BRIGADE at it again."

I can't for the life of me imagine what good deliberately sinking a trawler would do for Shell.

It would be a PR disaster for Shell...without ANY upside for them at all.

I wonder who is playing the "dirty tricks" ?

by A.R Thu Jun 11, 2009 10:00

I agree with Tim. Dont assume the media will not cover the sinking of Pats boat. I emailed most news outlets I am aware of to encourage them to investigate/cover the incident. With enough pressure, they will.

RTE have now covered it, but little surprise that the Irish Times have chosen to ignore it.

The public exposure of Shells brutality in Nigeria yesterday will open up a brief but vital space to air the truth about what is happening in Mayo.

by Suspicious. Thu Jun 11, 2009 10:12

"The men issued a Mayday call at about 4.30am after the 'Iona Isle' began sinking."

Simultaneously:

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2009/0611/...6.htm

Quote:
"The spokesman said six other people - four men and two women - were arrested at about 4.30am this morning at Glengad.
It is understood the six were arrested for allegedly attempting to disrupt dredging work at the pipeline site."

There is a LOT more to this than meets the eye methinks.
.

by Outraged media watcher Thu Jun 11, 2009 10:34

And now the Irish Times is telling us that "Private security guards hired by Shell alleged they were assaulted and threatened." !!?? (see IT link above). Not even a mention that "Opponents of the Shell project alleged that they were assaulted and threatened".

Lets keep the pressure on the corporate media. And on Shell and the government.

PS. Wonder if it was members of the Gardai or of the other private security outfit, IRMS, that felt so threatened?

by margaret Thu Jun 11, 2009 10:42

IF the JUSTICE MINISTER or MINISTER for the ENVIRONMENT or indeed THE GARDA COMMISSIONER could issue a statement saying they had no hand act or part in this ATROCITY, the abuse of HUMAN RIGHTS of the two fishermen involved at their place of work and SUBSEQUENTLY order an investigation into this incident and THE BRUTAL BEATING of WILLIE CORDUFF,ENVIRONMENTAL PRIZE WINNER.
THEN and only THEN can these matters be resolved with JUSTICE.

by cable Thu Jun 11, 2009 10:53

Without his boat, the Chief can't make his living, which happens to be in the way of Shell's proposed pipeline.....The security men who stole a public beach from the people, & videoed families & children walking the beach, you would trust them above a working fisherman who has the courage to oppose Shell's dangerous raw gas pipeline?

by LucyBMcA Thu Jun 11, 2009 11:01

It ought to be fairly simple to establish from the hospital staff the extent and nature of Willie Corduff's injuries. Equally, it ought to be fairly simple to establish from neutral parties like the marine rescue services the scenario to which they were called. I agree that an investigation into this incident needs to take place. But who would everyone agree to trust?

by Well done Thu Jun 11, 2009 11:08

The deliberate sinking of a boat onto the route of the pipeline is a great move. Lets see Shell try and get around this one (sic).

A brave move by the chief.

by Michael Gallagher Thu Jun 11, 2009 11:14

S2S should contact someone in the Dáil and try get this raised and questions answered by the Minister for Justice.

It's gone beyond too serious, someone could have died this morning.

by Ray - Cork Shell to Sea Thu Jun 11, 2009 11:22

Shell have always fought dirty in the Corrib Gas struggle in Mayo, right down to egging on Gardai to maim and nearly murder people. This year though, Shell have judged their police allies too lily-livered to do what's needed to get that pipeline in and consequently they've let IRMS' rag-bag of fascist mercenaries off the leash to commit acts of terrorism like sinking locals' fishing boats at sea and attempting to drown the crew. Meanwhile, Shell's media chorus lamely repeat Garda Press Office lies and half-truths in bought-and-paid-for harmony.

Shell thought in the past that they could buy off this community. A few were bought most notably the membership of that great oxymoron the 'business community', but most could see through Shell's trinkets and baubles. They then thought they could use the Gardai to intimidate the community in Erris into 'consent', but the people of Cill Chomáin stood steadfast in their opposition and gained support (and practical solidarity) from across Ireland and the world. Then Shell tried blackenhing the names of the Erris people and the Shell to Sea campaign, but their propaganda is too hyperbolic, strident and absurd for anyone with a halfway-working brain to swallow (though it appears they've gulled a considerable number of the 'superior intellects' on discussion sites like politics.ie). Now Shell have resorted to outright terrorism and the state has made itself complicit by abetting Shell with lies and fake investigations into this 'mysterious incident'.

Let us not call this outrage by any weak euphemism - this is an act of corporate/state terrorism.

This is an act of Shell/Garda/government terrorism.

It is time to get to Mayo if you can, or to do actions in solidarity with the brave people standing up to Shell in Mayo wherever you can.

This well-got and well-resourced terrorism cannot be allowed to prevail.

by paul o toole Thu Jun 11, 2009 11:49 pauljotoole at eircom dot net

Theese are challenging times and it is on our generation, who is to carry this burden to make changes happen.

Anyone who doubts Shells ability and willingness to use underhanded tactics including murder... needs to wake up......
Anyone who doubts Gardai Siochana willingness and ability to use underhanded tactics....including murder... needs to cop on.....
Anyone who doubts our elected deputies in Dail Eireann's willingness and ability to use underhanded tactics....including murder... needs to cop on.....

When Wealth and profit is on the table there is no room for compassion, understanding, rule of law,dispute resolution, or any level of concern for those who are in their way or advertantly find themselves intheir way.

Working peolpe you and me, not even asked, were told that we are bailing out the bankers and developers. There still getting bonuses paid for by tax paying Irish men and women.
It is the soverign right of every Irish person to benefit from the gas fields in Mayo and i believe that mounts to E100,000 per citizen of this Island.
Solidarity on a grand scale is what is needed now even more than ever for the people at Belnaboy.
Campaigns should join up and form a coalition to fight this tyranical beast called Dail Eireann posing as a democratic institution.

All causes are the same when viewed form the perspective of right and wrong. There could be a conjoined body formed to fight this paracite of corruption and greed which sweeps through the powerful and wealthy of this So called Soverign State.

Theres been enough suffering, and it will continnue unabated without a concerted efort from the general public who need to be informed of the latest sinister goings on in Belnaboy...

by BB Thu Jun 11, 2009 12:23

The assault on Willie Corduff was very poorly managed by S2S due to the delay in getting all the information to the public.
You are doing the same again. You need to give more and relevant information. If you with hold the obvious it looks as if you're hiding something.
For instance - how did the pirates get to the boat? Were they armed? What did they say? How did they leave? Did they have foreign/Irish accents? What was the nature of the Mayday?

If you have noting to hide then report every fcuking detail and do it now.
So far 5/10.

Beir Bua.

by rom Thu Jun 11, 2009 12:34

It goes with out saying that any evidence of personal assault and criminal damage needs to be documented ASAP. This seemed to be somewhat lacking when Willie was beaten but the Guardian yesterday published a video (link below) which clearly shows him with a large bruise

by Michael Gallagher - Photographer Thu Jun 11, 2009 12:35 libertypics at yahoo dot ie

...will it?

Will This be the Gravestone of Glengad and It's People? (c)

by Soundmigration Thu Jun 11, 2009 12:38

Yeah i agree that making claims that are dont have back up dont help the campiagn

However i doubt that anyone is under illusion that the cops in this country arent capable of murdering its citizens and closing ranks and hiding the truth, with the help of the political establishment

Public meeting in Dublin on police brutality and suspicions deaths and cover ups in police custody
http://www.indymedia.ie/article/85514

NGO slams police conduct in Mayo
http://www.indymedia.ie/article/85514

Fighting for justice and the truth, and interview with Terence Wheelock's brother Larry and mother Esther
http://www.indymedia.ie/article/76362

some of the many articles on this site that put some genuine perspective of the capacity of "the Law" to murder and abuse people in this country.

The other day shell paid out 10 million euros compo to ten individuals for the role the company played in the murder of 9 activists and campigners. Incidently the recently retired head of shell got just over 10 million euros compensation last year for having to step down.

by Graham - Rossport Solidarity Camp Thu Jun 11, 2009 13:19 rossportsolidaritycamp at gmail dot com 0851141170

The situation in Erris Co. Mayo has escalated into a sordid state of affairs, with two fishermen being held by force by two men in balaclavas at 2am on Thursday the 11th of June. The fishermen, Pat O’Donnell and Martin McDonnell, are both locals opposed to the controversial Corrib gas project which is currently being overseen by The Royal Dutch Shell Company.
The two fishermen were returning to Ballyglass pier, having been fishing out at sea, when their boat was boarded by four masked men. When Mr. O’Donnell and Mr. McDonnell had been rendered helpless, the boarders proceeded to move below decks and sink the ‘Iona Isle’, the trawler belonging to Mr. O’Donnell. Both men are now being tended to in Castlebar general hospital.

These attacks come shortly after roughly thirty Shell to Sea activists appeared in Bellmullet district court yesterday for assorted acts of civil disobedience relating to the proposed pipeline project. However a number of members of An Garda Síochanna were also summoned by the judge for possible acts of misconduct, misuse of authority and illegal behaviour relating to Shell to Sea protests.

The assaults carried out on the fishermen bear an uncanny resemblance to that which occurred almost a month and a half ago on local farmer and Goldman environmental prize winner Willie Corduff.

The recent developments here in Erris are becoming an increasing cause for concern for local people attempting to halt Shell’s work in order to defend their own livelihoods. Many families here are completely dependent on the local environment to produce a source of income. Having fishing grounds polluted by dredging work, or pipelines dragged through one’s fields is likely to evoke strong protest. Albeit most local people who oppose the project initially felt that there was little or no chance of the situation unravelling to the extent it would be so effortlessly comparable to the Ogoni saga in Nigeria.

More activists were arrested yesterday evening after they had assisted local men in barricading narrow choke points of road which lead to the Shell compound at Glengad, which is still devoid of the sufficient planning permission. One man had hoisted himself up onto the cab of a truck in an attempt to halt the illegal work, much to the surprise of local people and Garda present at the scene. The driver elected to accelerate down a steep hill with the man still on top of the vehicle. Two Shell to Sea activists were violently apprehended on the road and brought to Bellmullet Garda station where they’ve been held all night. They have been brought to court this morning without legal representation and the state is attempting to put them on remand. This means they will be held in jail until the next court hearing in July.

Also at half four earlier this morning fourteen people from the Rossport Solidarity Camp disrupted work whilst kayaking in bay where Shell are currently dredging. This resulted in the arrest of six people and police also slashed kayaks. Over the past ten days dredgers have been boarded on two occasions where activists climbed on top of diggers and stopped work. A number of injuries have been sustained during water actions injuries at the hands of the IRMS security, employed by Shell to triturate the campaign opposing the theft of billions of euro worth of gas.

The global pressure has been mounting significantly on Shell in recent times, with much media focus surrounding the Wiwa family lawsuits against them in New York. Shell was being sued for human rights abuses in the Ogoni region of Nigeria dating back to the early nineties, however Shell decided to settle out of court to the sum of $15.5 million dollars.

In the face of one of the world’s biggest multinational corporations backed by the state and a team of security, many of whom are known fascists and mercenaries, the community still stand strong in defence of their environment and livelihoods. The Rossport Solidarity Camp is providing active support to the community, please come and help!

by Horatio Grissom Holmes Thu Jun 11, 2009 13:38

You expect detailed reports and evidence while the guys are still in hospital do you?

Would you give them a chance to get warm and dry and back home with a cup of tea at least?

Feckin colombo didn't solve them this quick guys... are ye watching too much CSI on the Telly.

'how did the attackers get on the boat'? How do you think they did?

a) they can walk on water
b) they came up quitely in another boat in the dead of night (as they were trained to do,,, remember who some of these guys are and who the head of IRMS is)
c) they descended on fast ropes from a helicopter, and then made off in a waiting speed boat to a hidden lair in a hollowed out volcano.

I'm guessing it's b. seeing as a. is impossible, and c would have attract a bit too much attention
but we'll know more, when we know more. This only happened this morning folks.

And as for who and why, that isn't a great mystery either.

They don't want the Chief's boat in the bay.

As well as getting key individuals of out their way, they also want to scare the campers and any supporters.

The TV3 hit piece was designed to shade the Shell to Sea campaign as liars and violent, in advance of an escalation of a dirty tricks campaign.

Watch how Shell did it in other countries, they knew the right levers to push, how to work the system, media, law enforcement and politicians.

This is a battle, make no doubt about it guys. Propoganda war, direct action, and of course brute force from the cops and IRMS.

by Jen Debender Thu Jun 11, 2009 13:41

You are asking relevant questions. Unfortunately because the two men who were on the boat are in the hospital, there has been very minimal contact with them. As soon as more information is known, it'll be put out.

by IndyHead Thu Jun 11, 2009 13:45

Further arrests at Shell compound Corrib refinery
All the arrests were made in the Glengad area

Eight people have been arrested on public order charges following incidents close to the Shell compound at Glengad beach, County Mayo. Two men were arrested in Glengad on Wednesday evening after trucks used to collect stone from a quarry were allegedly damaged. In the early hours of Thursay morning, four men and two women were detained the same area. It is alleged they were trying to disrupt dredging work.

Also on Thursday morning, two men were rescued from a life raft in the sea off County Mayo after their fishing vessel sank. When their vessel, Iona Isle, began sinking, the two men got into their raft and issued a Mayday call to the Malin Head Coastguard. Malin Head Coastguard received the call at the same time that 15 kayaks were moving towards the Shell dredger within 1km of the shoreline at Glengad beach. Two boats from the Garda Water Unit were dealing with this incident at the time the distress signal was received. The boats diverted and went in search of the sinking vessel.

'Masked men'

The Coastguard put out a call to nearby vessels and the 'Rachel Mary' reached the Iona Isle first and took two crewmen aboard. The men were taken to Ballyglass Pier and on to hospital in Castlebar as a precautionary measure. Meanwhile, Shell to Sea protesters said the boat was boarded by four masked men in the early hours of this morning. They said the crewmen - including prominent fishing rights activist Pat O'Donnell - were held in the wheelhouse of the vessel and allowed to issue the Mayday call before the Iona Isle was deliberately sunk.

by indyhead Thu Jun 11, 2009 13:54

He is a 'silent partner' in the company that made it - by his own admission. A FF appointed senator.

by BB Thu Jun 11, 2009 14:02

If Martin Ferris in Kerry can tell us that the men were armed and spoke with foreign accents why has S2S not told us this?
I'm sorry for the men concerned but it's critical that you are fully proactive on this.
Hearts and Minds guys. That's where it will be won or lost.

by A.R Thu Jun 11, 2009 14:08

I agree with Lucy B Mc A about the need to establish some data - and agree to trust someone.

The campaign should pause and think strategically for a moment. Avoid making claims that cannot be substantiated now, in order to avoid having to go back on what was said today in one weeks time.

Firstly; wait to speak to the chief and get him to write/record the event in detail. Encourage him to contact the media about it. Make a public complaint to the Guards.

Secondly, get a statement from the rescue services. I presume they have to make detailed reports on these incidents. Get this.

Thirdly, get a detailed report from the hopsital, i.e. the causal chain of injuries.

When armed with the indisputable facts, run a publicity campaign and take Shell to war in the media.

But, to do this, the campaign needs to build a network of of sympathetic journalists to cover these issues. If we identify at least one journo to do this, then the facts can be made public, and speak for themselves.

by ARTY eeeeeeeeeeeeee Thu Jun 11, 2009 14:23

Seems first news of this was on morning ireland abou 8.30 am on RTE;

4 balaclavad men, came on board, forced them into a holding room, gave them 4 mins to make a mayday, and sunk the boat...

Morning Ireland: Teresa Mannion, Regional Reporter, says two men were rescued from a life raft after their fishing vessel sank
http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/0611/mayo_av.html?2560597,n...l,209

related print and audio news report
http://www.rte.ie/news/2009/0611/mayo.html

by old codger - pensioner Thu Jun 11, 2009 14:23

Jim farrell made a great job of praising his boys yesterday on rteobviously in leau of this military action against irish citizens.
Shell have prooved that they can get away with murder in nigeria and they are well on the way to doing it here.
When you can hire the military, security fascict thugs, gardai or the political criminals with the petty cash you can do what you like,
Commit murder and pay your way out of punishment these are shells tactics.
The gardai are well aware of what is occuring here and are willing participants in treason.
All the trolls that are suspicious or looking for evidence go to u tube or the dozens of sites with plenty of evidence of shells methods of corruption and murder.
Your posts on this site show what you are.

Where are the politicians that where out pleading for our support? where is their support ?
It is their duty to protect the citizens that elected them.

by LP Thu Jun 11, 2009 14:29

BB has a point, S2S' media work is slack. The website seems to be confusing Martin McDonnell and Pat's brother Martin O'Donnell. If the perpetrators of the largest property damage the campaign has seen so far had foreign accents, then the media shouldn't have to hear about it from Kerry.

by IH Thu Jun 11, 2009 14:52

LORNA SIGGINS, Western Correspondent

"Mr Pat O’Donnell, owner of the vessel, told The Irish Times that he and his crewman Martin McDonnell had been held by armed men who boarded the 12 metre Iona Isle at about 2am this morning. The vessel began taking water, and the two fishermen say they were fortunate to be able to take to the life raft before it sank. Mr O’Donnell reported the incident to Belmullet gardai. Mr O’Donnell, who runs a shellfish company in Erris, refused to sign up to an agreement last year between Shell E&P Ireland and the Erris Fishermen’s Association over facilitating the laying of the offshore Corrib gas pipeline, due to his concerns about pollution from the refinery discharge pipe."

by MARGARET Thu Jun 11, 2009 15:33

Two years ago today we also witnessed the GARDA BRUTALITY at MCGRATH,S PIER,when "out of control GARDAI" forced a mechanical digger on to private lands.
Many people were injured that day .We know what they are capable of,we need human rights groups to monitor our protests .ATTEMPTED MURDER is the only way to describe this latest attack on PAT ODONNELL, a peaceful protestor at his place of work..

by Blaxter Thu Jun 11, 2009 15:42

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2009/0611/...7.htm The Pro Gas Mayo group said it “notes with concern the allegation made on RTÉ radio that masked men were responsible for sinking a boat off the Erris coast, and the implied implication was that this by done by some sections of security connected to Shell or the State itself”. “We would not accept this as being the true position, and is somewhat akin to the allegation made that similar masked personnel beat up a protestor under a lorry some weeks ago,” it said.

Shell to Sea, now that Pro Gas Mayo and fellow travellers of its malodorous ilk are heaping incredulity and cold water on the sinking of the Iona Isle, now is the time for videoed in depth interviews with the Chief and Martin McDonnell, on this matter, to be posted on YouTube and linked to Indymedia.?

by RSC Thu Jun 11, 2009 16:18

This is the definitive account of the sinking of the Iona Isle this morning from Pat O'Donnell himself.
Pat O'Donnell's fishing boat was boarded by four masked men, two of whom were armed, at approximately two o clock this morning whilst out at sea laying pots. The two armed men held Mr O'Donnell and his crewman Martin McDonnell in the wheelhouse of the boat while another two went below deck for 20 minutes. These men returned to the deck and the two crew members were held for one and a half hours until the engine went out. At this point the masked men alighted onto an unknown vessel that took them away. None of the men spoke good english. Mr O'Donnell went down to the engine room and realised that the boat was sinking.The two fishermen put out a mayday signal and attempted to inflate their lifeboat. The inflation mechanism failed a number of times but eventually worked with only moments left to spare. Once onboard the lifeboat Mr O'Donnell and Mr McDonnell sent out a distress flare. They were rescued at 4.30am by the 'Rachel Mary', another boat owned by Pat O’Donnell and operated by his son, Jonathan O’Donnell. He then rang the Gardai at around 6am to inform them of the incident.

Pat said '"I was in fear for my life, is there no end to what these thugs will try to do? AIl I am trying to do is protect my family and the seas that are our livelihood. I told Minster O'Cuiv in April that I needed protection by the state, but he wouldn't give it - now its time for the government to protect its people.I won't be intimidated by this."

Pat O’Donnell is a local fisherman with over thirty years experience in the waters off the coast of Ireland. It is assumed that Pat O'Donnell was targeted as he is one of the loudest objectors to Shell's Corrib Gas Project. As a fifth generation fisherman his livelihood will be crippled by pollution from the corrib project into Broadhaven bay. Determined to protect the waters for future generations of fishermen, Mr. O'Donnell has consistently refused to be paid off by Shell.

by Caoimhe - Dublin Shell to Sea Thu Jun 11, 2009 16:41 dublins2s at gmail dot com

I do media work for Dublin Shell to Sea and yes I agree it is slack, but people need to realise, that we have full time jobs apart from this campaign. Shell are a massive corporation with a hired PR company that trawl through all the papers and media outlets everyday for mention of their name.

Their resources are huge in comparison to ours, and in the face of that I think we actually doing okay.

It is great to hear people's suggestions for media work, but what would be a hell of a lot more useful is people contacting us at dublins2s@gmail.com with offers to take on some media work for the campaign. It could be as simple as offering to cover one newspaper everyday. For example if you buy the Irishtimes everyday, then maybe you could offer to check it for any mention of Shell to Sea, Shell, Corrib Gas Project, Natural resources giveaway etc, and forward us the details of the article and we could respond. If 20 people took on to do a paper each that would be an enormous help. Do you listen to Newtalk/ RTE/ Today Fm /fm 104 etc every morning on your way to work? Maybe you could take that on?

There is loads of little small things that people could take on. It would be greatly appreiciated if people did, as this is the type of practical things that would help the campaign.

Again please contact us at dublins2s@gmail.com if you can help at all.

by old codger - pensioner Thu Jun 11, 2009 16:49

If the state will not protect Pat or any other fisherman then they have no choice but to protect themselves
IF ARMED MEN ARE THREATENING iRISH SUBJECTS WITH IMPUNITY THERE IS NO OTHER WAY.
If they carry arms you have to do likewise at sea.
FROM NOW ON PAT BE EXTRA VIGILANT YOU NEEED TO CARRY an additonal pasenger as lookout

by J K Thu Jun 11, 2009 16:54

R T E comment line is 01 2083434 you will get a live person or a machine, depending on the time you phone. Make your point / complaint concisely about R T E's slanted coverage etc.

It will take all of two minutes and they are all logged and sent "upstairs" as I was told.

This is very little to ask given what people are going through in Rossport.

Horatio above hit the bulls eye; Shell know how to push the right levers and work the system big time.

Yesterday's RTE's PK Show was a classic propaganda stunt for Shell.

It was carefully poised and preplanned.

S2S P R needs the same.

by Mick Nolan. Thu Jun 11, 2009 17:34

I agree with Caoimhe that it is very difficult to counter the Niagra Falls of lies,manipulations and spin which are being fed onto the airwaves and into a willing and compliant print media.

The RTE comment line above is a good suggestion.

I used it when Maura Harrington was jailed for a second time and this event was blanked by RTE for a full 24 hours after she was taken from Belmullet Court to Mountjoy.

S2S put out press releases, including to RTE at the time.

I spoke to a woman on the comment line who said that it was an "editorial decision" not to broadcast Maura's imprisonment. I politely reminded her that R T E were under a stringent constitutional obligation to impart information and educate public opinion.

It was suggested not to take my word for this, but to look up the Constitution itself . She said she had logged my comment and it would be passed on.

The wording of this document is that the education of public opinion is of "grave import". It is at Artice 40.6. I forget the exact subsection but it is very relevant.

They reported Maura's jailing a few hours later.

I am not saying that it was down to that comment, but all efforts help, especially if they are aimed at the right spot.

by Ray - Cork Shell to Sea Thu Jun 11, 2009 17:36

When Shell makes complaints against protestors the Gardai then say they are investigating 'offences'.

When protestors make complaints against Shell employees the Gardai then say they are investigating 'allegations'.

You can never have equal treatment in the media with the all-lying all-slanting Garda Press Office about!

Remember this?

http://www.indymedia.ie/article/88958#comment235392

see also:

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2008/0906/1....html

by Starry Plough Thu Jun 11, 2009 17:42

Shell is an extremely powerful multinational. S2S is not organised enough 2 fight it. We could learn from da success of da left in the local elections.

by James Kelly. Thu Jun 11, 2009 17:55

All of that is true Ray, which makes the point I have been banging on about; that the info websites need to be advertised in a serious and widespread manner on the streets and especially in the main population centres around the country.

Serious consideration should be given to pouring money into such an exercise, otherwise, with state and corporate media spin, the Big Sleep will continue for the bulk of the population.

by Madam K Thu Jun 11, 2009 18:00

This is an interview with pat O Donnell a few days before the sinking of the Iona in which he voices his concerns for the welfare of shell to Sea Activists on land and at sea. Quite prophetic....

Caption: Video Id: I6mvx302bRk&feature= Type: Youtube Video
Pat O Donnell

by W Thu Jun 11, 2009 18:16

Hi Madam K. Can you give the date on which that interview with Pat O'Donnell was recorded? It is useful for media work: when sending the link to media, it would be good to be able to say the exact date it was made.

by helper Thu Jun 11, 2009 19:39

Statoil are still involved and I'm sure these shocking developments will be big news there if someone makes the calls.

Aftenposten is the paper of record and JAN GUNNAR FURULY is the environmental correspondent and he speaks english.

http://www.indymedia.ie/article/71041

by Socialist Thu Jun 11, 2009 20:58

Its time to stop messing around. This campaign needs LEADERSHIP.

by Madam K Thu Jun 11, 2009 20:58

Hi W it was on june 1st ,sorry thought i put that in the title will do so .

by Ken Lee Fri Jun 12, 2009 00:01

..and a call-out to all those in favour of taking the resistance to another level, especially those that can call on numbers of people with some time to spare, political parties, groups, communities and individuals.

A coordinating 'action committee' needs to be put together which includes S2S, communities in Mayo and beyond. The actions from here on in need to be united, coordinated and planned well in advance, (in secret) with a clear aim of what's required to give them the best chance of maximum effectiveness.

Effective coordinated action on more than one front (numbers permitting) with the goals of stopping the ship coming back into the bay, getting the giveaway of our countries resources back onto the agenda and on everyone's mind and lips. It's time to box clever or fail.

Is it unreasonable to ask:

1. Was their any brown envelopes involved in the 'deal' done between Fianna Fáil and Shell etc, in particular with the involvement of Ray Burke and Bertie Ahern, one a proven corrupt criminal minister and the other still awaiting his fate from The MahonTribunal.

2. Are their any grounds for scrutinising this 'deal' and seeing is their an unopened can of worms in it's wake?

3. Does it stand up in the light of what we now know about the two Fianna Fáíl politicians named above, and the Shell corporation?

(Have I got the right tribunal, There's been that many?)

by observer Fri Jun 12, 2009 06:12

Note recent change in language - everyone is a protestor! no more campaigners, no more members of Shell to Sea, no more personal names where easily appropriate. All media, companies and security companies take note.

by Dublin Shell to Sea Fri Jun 12, 2009 09:04

Another video shows IRMS security staff verbally abusing Pat O'Donnell
Mayo fisherman Pat O'Donnell, whose trawler was sunk on Thursday morning (11th June 2009) by armed and masked men, told two Government Ministers six weeks ago that he feared his boat would be attacked by IRMS staff, who provide security for Shell in Mayo. His comments are recorded on video.
Speaking at a public meeting in Inver, Co Mayo on 30th April 2009, attended by Ministers Eamon Ryan and Eamon Ó Cuiv, Mr O'Donnell said: "These mercenaries that have been training for the last two months in Killala Bay: am I going to meet them in balaclavas like Willie Corduff met his attackers? I was on my lobster pots yesterday in Broadhaven and I was no sooner there 20 minutes than I had a Shell contracted boat sticking cameras on me and reporting back to Shell. ... What’s going to happen when they come with the balaclavas in Broadhaven Bay to take me out of it? ... I’m asking you tonight: tomorrow morning put a stop to what’s going on in Glengad before it goes on out to the sea."

A full transcript of Mr O'Donnell's comments to the ministers is below.
The footage can be seen at this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMGOtr-LnhE

Speaking after the attack yesterday, Mr O'Donnell said: '"I was in fear for my life. Is there no end to what these thugs will try to do? All I am trying to do is protect my family and the seas that are our livelihood. I told Minister Ó Cuiv in April that I needed protection by the State, but he wouldn't give it - now it's time for the Government to protect its people. I won't be intimidated by this."

Meanwhile, IRMS security staff video-recorded themselves verbally abusing Mr O'Donnell last year and then uploaded the clip to YouTube. Mr O'Donnell was picking up his car from Glengad Pier one night in September 2008, when IRMS security staff began filming him. A verbal altercation ensues and one of the men behind the camera can be heard saying to Mr O'Donnell, "Fuck off, Irish prick!" in an eastern European accent.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-RIyNGaous&NR=1

The same YouTube user, "MyKaczy" has posted other footage shot from inside Shell's illegal compound at Glengad beach. He has also posted comments under Corrib Gas video clips on YouTube, including: "Irish PIG", "Irish Fuckers" and "If you live there you are protestor and dickhead". His clips can be seen here:
http://www.youtube.com/user/MyKaczy

IRMS has been in the spotlight in connection with several events in recent weeks. In April it was revealed that it was while working for IRMS at Shell's site in Erris that Michael Dwyer met the former mercenaries from eastern Europe who introduced him to Eduardo Rozsa Flores and other sinister figures in Bolivia, which led to his tragic death. Also in April, Mayo farmer Willie Corduff was badly beaten by a group of masked security staff working for IRMS.

This week in New York, Shell made an out-of-court settlement of $9.6 million to end a lawsuit which claimed it was complicit in the execution of Nigerian activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other campaigners against its operations in the Ogoni region of Nigeria in 1995.

Transcript of video excerpt showing Pat O'Donnell speaking at a public meeting attended by Ministers Eamon Ryan and Eamon Ó Cuiv, chaired by former Department of Justice secretary general Joe Brosnan, on 30th April, 2009, at Inver, Co Mayo:

“I don’t want another answer telling me to go to court. I haven’t got the money to go to court. But what I did do last year, I asked the Minister for Justice to protect me. I asked the President of Ireland, who is the Commanding Officer of the naval fleet to protect me. I had a legitimate right to fish, a traditional right to fish, and I was wrongfully arrested twice in 24 hours. And I told you this in Ballina with Fr. Nallen and two other fishermen last year and you still haven’t come back. You told me you would give me answers. There is no answers. I had the law on my side but you choose to ignore it and tell me to go to court. I can’t afford to go to court.

And another question is -- now that the law didn’t work for you guys last year, and Shell -- these mercenaries that have been training for the last two months in Enniscrone Beach, Killala Bay; am I going to meet them with balaclavas like Willie Corduff met his attackers?

I was on my [lobster] pots yesterday in Broadhaven and I was no sooner there 20 minutes, I had a Shell contracted boat sticking cameras on me and reporting back to Shell. I’m fishing these bays, the fourth generation of family that's fishing Broadhaven and let me tell you something: my wife down in the house is very, very worried and she’s been telling me this for a long time, even before the mercenary from Glengad was shot in Bolivia, that something like this was going to happen to us. Every single day that passes, it's becoming more of a reality. She had her son and her husband locked up in Castlerea Prison, the two of us separated into two different prisons. Could you imagine what Shell is doing to that woman? To our family? You have a family destroyed.

Mr. Brosnan, you're not getting off the hook here either. I told you what was going to happen. I told you in Ballina what was going to happen. Willie Corduff is down there [points to the back of the hall]. It’s a miracle he’s alive. The law failed me. The state failed me last year. I’m an awful reasonable man. Listen to me. I didn’t take the law into my own hands.

What’s going to happen when they come with the balaclavas in Broadhaven Bay to take me out of it?

I’ve read in one of the tabloids, now I don’t believe in what tabloids print, but last Monday, if you go back to The Sun, they were out there training to blow up ships. What’s that telling us? What’s that telling us here tonight? That these guys were training to blow up ships? They’re training in Killala Bay and Enniscrone in the last six weeks to eight weeks. That's a fact. For what?

I’m asking you tonight: tomorrow morning put a stop to what’s going on in Glengad before it goes on out to the sea."

Pat O'Donnell (Photo: William Hederman)

by Tim Hourigan Fri Jun 12, 2009 09:19

by Caoimhe - Dublin Shell to Sea
"I do media work for Dublin Shell to Sea and yes I agree it is slack, but people need to realise, that we have full time jobs apart from this campaign. Shell are a massive corporation with a hired PR company that trawl through all the papers and media outlets everyday for mention of their name."

In a lot of cases, they will know in advance cos they ring up after their press releases and talk to the journalist. They have established.
Despite all their hard work and committment, Shell to Sea can't match that to the same number, but I'm hoping that ye've at least made such a relationship with a few key journos. (worked well for Shannon Peace Camp)

It is great to hear people's suggestions for media work, but what would be a hell of a lot more useful is people contacting us at dublins2s@gmail.com with offers to take on some media work for the campaign. It could be as simple as offering to cover one newspaper everyday. For example if you buy the Irishtimes everyday, then maybe you could offer to check it for any mention of Shell to Sea, Shell, Corrib Gas Project, Natural resources giveaway etc, and forward us the details of the article and we could respond. If 20 people took on to do a paper each that would be an enormous help. Do you listen to Newtalk/ RTE/ Today Fm /fm 104 etc every morning on your way to work? Maybe you could take that on?

Certainly agree with the radio, if people don't actually buy a particular paper though (either they don't support them or don't want to have to buy it every day on the offchance it mentions Corrib) there are other handy tools. For example, I have set up Google Alerts for the term 'Shannon Airport' and I get e-mails every day .... I will now set up another bunch of alert for Corrib Gas and related terms. They're very useful and allow you to respond fairly quickly. They also have the advantage of reporting stuff from the foreign media that may not be mentioned here, or may take a few days to filter through.

It's easy for people to do, and quicker than trawling through newspapers, as the alert comes back with a clickable link.

The same can't be done for radio, so yeah, it would be good if people shared it out. I think they'd have to co-ordinate through your good selves to make sure proper ceoverage and not just everyone listening to Morning Ireland and Newstalk.
Is there a blog they could post to and let others see what's already reported, (so that they wouldn't be duplicating it as they would certainly do if they were just e-mailing you) If not, someone could set one up easily (I could probably do it myself.)

by Richie Fri Jun 12, 2009 09:24

Suggestions of Scuttling
author by Bazooka Joepublication date Thu Jun 11, 2009 18:08Report this post to the editors

9.59am 'Suspicious' wondered who was playing the 'dirty tricks' as it would not be in Shells interest to sink a boat in a place that would obstruct their proposed route. No comment from anyone!

That's cos people tend to ignore trolls and smears.
Your analysis of the situation ignores the practicalities involved in making calls when under attack, and then when in an inflateable lifeboat (do they have marine radio? I've never seen one so well equipped) and implies that the men wasted the time of marine rescue as well as managed to convince a hospital to treat them for phantom issues.

Now, if you want to play detective, go check out some facts for yourself.

by Miriam Fri Jun 12, 2009 09:54

I've been trying to do as you suggest on twitter.

by Ray - Cork Shell to Sea Fri Jun 12, 2009 10:11

The pay is €32,000 p.a. and FÁS in Newbridge will arrange the introduction. Thick-set individuals with fascist tatoos only need apply.

To see the Glengad Goon job ad online, go to:

http://www.careerjet.ie/job/ce7b0769a837b53b44e4c1c6df1....html

and don't let the location (Ballina) fool you - IRMS have only one contract in Co. Mayo! Hurry! You have until July 11th to sign up for this unique thuggish opportunity!

Some text from the relevant page:

Security Officer
Duties to include static security duties in the Ballina region. Applicants must have FETAC Level 4 completed, Basic Guarding Skills, PSA licence (private security authority), Safe Pass, Conflict Management Module 1 and 2, Restraint Techniques training, PST survival training (personal survival techniques), Manual Handling. This is a six month contract.

Location: Ballina (Rural)
Payment: 31,200 pa Euro
Employer Details
Integrated Risk Management Services (IRMS)
Toughers Business Park
Naas
Co. Kildare

Phone: 045 408116
Email: info@i-rms.com

How To Apply
Please apply with CV to FÁS Employment Services Office, Main Street, Newbridge, Co. Kildare. Please quote JB No. - 495925 on all applications.
Closing Date: 2009-07-11

by Until Jerusalem Fri Jun 12, 2009 10:46

"However i doubt that anyone is under illusion that the cops in this country arent capable of murdering its citizens and closing ranks and hiding the truth, with the help of the political establishment"

Actually, there are people who are under that illusion. And your PR and press should be aimed at convincing those people about the truth of this incident.

Instead, the S2S campaign seems about to shoot itself in the foot yet again.

by Fred Johnston Fri Jun 12, 2009 11:19

I find it hard to take semi-literate abuse. In any case the police should be examining the alleged attack on the boat and if they are not then questions should be asked. Thankfully, this time, the media have not been able to avoid the issue.

by old codger - pensioner Fri Jun 12, 2009 11:21

Where are you?
I believed there would be a declaration of outrage from Irish fishermen at this attack on their fellow countryman, by foriegn,armed merceneries turned pirates .
WHERE IS YOUR SUPPORT?
You Know what scumbags our politicians are and how they have sold our fishing grounds to the EU for their own gain. (NOW THEY ARE SELLING OUR MINERAL RIGHTS TO MULTINATIONAL'S) to line their own pockets.
These resources belong to you and your children just as the fishing grounds used to. The fishing grounds are gone but it is not to late to stop these thieves from stealing our OIL AND GAS. We can expect no help from the political scumbags.
PAT O DONNELL AND FAMILY HAVE SHOWN TREMENDOUS COURAGE IN STANDING UP TO THESE TRAITORS, LETS SHOW SOME SOLIDARITY WITH HIM. WHEN THE SOLITAIRE ARRIVES COME TO ROSSPORT IN NUMBERS AND BLOCADE THE BAY.
You will all need thesupport of the public when you try to protect your fishing quotas.
SHOW SOLIDARITY AND PATRIOTISM IF YOU CAN.

by DoM Fri Jun 12, 2009 11:30

Corribrules...
we know all about the donations and brown envelopes and the dirty tactics.
The truth will come out.

It is the Shell Ship that is sinking along with the economy... the rats are getting nervous and nasty.
It is not as if we will be bought off with their kind 'donations' to the community.
Ot that this country doesn't desperately need 500 Billion Euros worth of gas that was 'sold' for only One Euro.
We cut the housing benefit and medical cards... but don't tax the brown envelopes, corrupt politicians and corporate criminals.
The people have the power, if only they realised it.. are we not still a Republic?
We are The State... not the corrupt money men, developers and multinationals.
Slán

by DoM Fri Jun 12, 2009 11:36

The only ghost in Belmullet will be Shell.
500 Billion should be bringing prosperity, education and a health service to the whole nation, not just to Shell and some bought off locals.
Shell2Sea, do it right, do it legally, and safely, do it for the people that own the national resource.
Slán.

by trixie Fri Jun 12, 2009 11:54

its clearly you thats insane.
FACT: Value of the boat does not matter- value of the lives on board do.
FACT:-Why at pipe line route you ask ? well people have fished here for years before there was mention of a pipe line or shell
FACT: Belmullet has got along fine over the years with only the locals and the tourists it does not need or depend on Shell to survive.
FACT: All Shell has brought is fear, anger, fustration, divide in the community, tears, sadness, shock, and voilence to a peaceful community.
FACT: you may have a gas supply for 50 years but local people will fear for thier lives for ever.
FACT: they only made these donations to butter people up- had there not been such oppisition to the project they would not have given a penny towards the area except of course the brown envelopes they have passed along to some people
FACT: to put the pipeline underground they will destroy lots of wildelife as they have done already in Glengad beach as they have no respect for environmental issues of the area.
FACT: WE ARE NOT GOING AWAY!
FACT: Yes the gas has been given away, no its not acceptable, yes YOU should open your eyes and yes YOU shoud live in the real word

by observer Fri Jun 12, 2009 12:36

There is a differnce getting more visible by the day. During last night there were two serious life incidents in Castlebar and Dublin. By dawn the Gardai had set up investigation rooms which made top news all of this morning on narional and local radio respectively. Why the difference at media level?

It might be time to let the people know which part of the Force is on Shell duty and which part is working in community protection. The latter has to be free to react as quickly as the Gardai in Dublin and in Castlebar. The others can continue Shell duty even though we have not requested them to be so involved, even though our money from future Shell tax is being used to pay them. Sorry that they have been reduced to gatemen. Time for them to demand professional recognition instead of having to sit in vans all day long and having to withdraw when action is about to happen.

How long is the State going to pay them. Will Shell deduct the cost of employing IMRS from our first tax - are we throwing our money away as we are in Shell's scholarship scheme and sponsorships and gifts - it is our tax money and taken for use without our permission. Shell has made no profit yet - can you accept its largesse and how can you take what is a 'grease your palm' cheque?.

by Lemuel Fri Jun 12, 2009 15:01

As the Norwegian state oil company Statoil is involved, it may be relevant to try to raise a fuss in the Norwegian media.

This is a list of all Norwegian newspapers:
http://www.norske-aviser.com/

Click "alle aviser sortert fylkesvis" to sort by geographical location

Click on any of the links under Oslo (capital city) to get to the newspaper's website.
Then search CTRL-F for the word "kontakt" or "tips" to find contact details.

Best to phone the newsdesk if you can. It is polite to ask "Do you speak English?" at the outset. Most do.

Get right to the point in as few words as you can:
A fisherman who has protested against the Shell/Statoil gas pipeline off the west coast of Ireland has had his fishing boat sunk.
Statoil is involved in a hazardous project that has not been approved by planning procedures and that is opposed by local residents.

Refer to the stories in the Irish Times and here on Indymedia for further details.
For stories in the Irish Times, direct journalists to www.irishtimes.com and to search for "Corrib" in the search field.

I have spoken to somebody at AftenPosten.

How can journalists contact Pat O'Donnell?

by Lemuel Fri Jun 12, 2009 15:15

Norwegian radio stations:
NRK http://www.nrk.no/
P4 http://www.p4.no/
Radio Norge www.radionorge.fm/

Norwegian TV channels:
www.nrk.no
www.tvnorge.no/

by Sinbad Fri Jun 12, 2009 20:16

Very strange that Mr O Donnell has refused to make a complaint to the Garda about the incident it is quite clear that this did not happen the way O Donnell says it did. According to the Garda who went to the assistance of the boat in distress that there was no other vessel anywhere near O Donnels boat which to me it seems that he deliberately sunk the boat to try to blame Shell.

by Boffin Island. Fri Jun 12, 2009 20:28

"Very strange that Mr O Donnell has refused to make a complaint to the Garda about the incident it is quite clear that this did not happen the way O Donnell says it did. According to the Garda who went to the assistance of the boat in distress that there was no other vessel anywhere near O Donnels boat which to me it seems that he deliberately sunk the boat to try to blame Shell."

I hope this is not true.

It is exactly what Shell says.
.

by old codger - Pensioner Fri Jun 12, 2009 20:32

The gardai have made them selves enemies of the Shell protestors, they have been working in cooperation with the IRMS security thugs and have witnessed dozens of assaults on peacefull protestors. having assaulted many people them selves, they also continuosly spin lies and deciept about the protesters being IRA terrorists.
After the savage beating by both Gardai and later hooded security thugs of Willie Corduff they told a complete pack of lies on the RTE news saying that a security man was injured by hooded military type assasins, ( protestors)weilding iron bars.
NIETHER WILLIE OR PAT CAN TRUST THESE SWINES, I think that is why they are reluctant to report any thing to them.
This may be a mistake in the eye of the public, enableing doubtors like yourself to hold on to illogical opinions.

by Madam K Fri Jun 12, 2009 23:53

While out on a boat trip in Broadhaven bay ,a special area of conservation and site of Shell`s experimental gas pipline,we were photographed and videod by Garda and Shell private security .
Residents and visitors to the area are being held under unacceptable levels of surveillance .

Are Irish Garda working with private security to enforce "Shell law " in Mayo?

Caption: Video Id: a4lyVUEUjiM Type: Youtube Video
Embedded video Youtube Video

by Spin Watch. Sat Jun 13, 2009 00:06

Very strange that Mr O Donnell has refused to make a complaint to the Garda about the incident it is quite clear that this did not happen the way O Donnell says it did. According to the Garda who went to the assistance of the boat in distress that there was no other vessel anywhere near O Donnels boat which to me it seems that he deliberately sunk the boat to try to blame Shell.


Untrue. He phoned the police and made a complaint. Did you expect him to be dropped off at the Garda station instead of the hospital after what he'd been through.
And given the amount of time he spent on the lifeboat waiting to be rescued after firing the flare, why WOULD the thugs still be around the area? (assuming the cops were actually looking for them)

The 'no complaint' bit is spin, pure and simple. the Gardai do NOT need a written complaint before they act, (unless they don't WANT to investigate). They would look for a written complaint before they go to COURT. They can and do act, on phone complaints, or verbal complaints all the time, and look for it in writing later if needed.

The first sign of spin, is when someone says "it is quite clear" with either no evidence, or when what they put up as proof doesn't stand up to even slight scrutiny.

by . Sat Jun 13, 2009 00:42

anyone wanting to help monitor and spread news about media coverage of shell situation should use the #s2s tag

already started. please let protesters know about it too they can get and contribute on phones and good info can be passed here - you can boot / block the trolls on twitter too!

by Cathar Sat Jun 13, 2009 12:37

I had been thinking about the insurance issue as iterrorist acts are a standard exclusion clause. It is one of the reasons why he is reluctant to make a statement without taking full legal advice first.

A civil case against unknown masked men or their employers would be dificult to pursue.

IRMS got away with the attack on Willie Corduff through an adroit PR exercise aided and abeted by the Gardai. The events that night are not very credibile from an IRMS viewpoint. Only 2 security men on duty in a partly constructed compound where protests had been underway all the previous day. Willie was lying under a lorry delivering concrete beams to stabilise the fencing. Therfore the fencing wasnt secured and there was expensive machinery inside. With 250 persoonel working for IRMS and allegedly no Garda presence despite an ogoing protest this seems extraordinary. IRMS promulgated the story of the Baraclava men which was a complete fabrication. This is relayed as fact and embellished by a Chief Supt. of the Gardai to the media.
This paved the way for the sinking of the Iona Isle. If you can get away with it do it (as long as there are no witnesses) seems to be their motto. You dont scare the Bulgarian mafia off a building site through PR. It requires a demonstration of supperior force and consequences.
I wondered what was coming when Jim Farrell went on a PR exercise on the radio the day before.

This paved the way for the sinking of the Iona Isle. This is a demonstration of supperior force and consequences. Something that is thought to Special forces units like the SAS or Rangers.

by squid Sat Jun 13, 2009 12:40 squid at limerickblogger dot org

The Paul Williams documentary has been mentioned here asd it's impartiality has been questioned. Has no one considered taking the issue of the TV3 documentary to the Broadcasting Complaints commission or the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland

by above the line Sat Jun 13, 2009 12:41

I have to ask - is that really the best picture you could find to illustrate this article? Because it makes it look like he's really happy about having his boat sunk. It's a very odd choice to use a picture which sends out such a strange signal. Maybe the editors are trying to say something by using it?

by old codger - pensioner Sat Jun 13, 2009 14:50

JIM FARELL AND TERRY DOWNES HAVE A PRIVATE ARMY AND ARE HIRED BY SHELL TO DO THEIR DIRTY WORK BUT THE IRA ARE CONDEMNED BY THE GOVERNMENT WHO STATE THAT THERE IS ONLY ONE ARMY IN IRELAND AND THAT IS THE LEGITIMATE IRISH ARMY.

by Ray - Cork Shell to Sea Sat Jun 13, 2009 15:08

Never mind Jim Farrell and his high-profile ways, here's some biog info on his mucker Terry Downes, from his LinkedIn profile!
(All misspellings are Mr. Downes' own)

TERRY DOWNES
Owner, Integrated Risk Management Services (I-RMS)
Ireland

Current
Owner and Chief Executive Officer at Integrated Risk Management Services (I-RMS)
Past
Founder and Former CEO at FREIGHTWATCH INTERNATIONAL
Group Security Manager at TNT
Education
Christian Brothers College (Which one? Cork? Monkstown? There's at least two schools in Ireland with that name)
Industry
Security and Investigations
Websites
http://www.i-rms.com/
TERRY DOWNES’s Summary
Former Military Background with 7 years service in the irish Army's Special Forces Anti Terrorist unit the Army Ranger Wing.

Former Direct of Risk Management TNT Ireland before taking on the role as Group Security Manager with TNT.

Invited SSP Member of TAPA (www.tapaemea.com) for third consecutive year in 2009.

Basic and Advanced Cargo Security Management Program with the Merchant Marine Academt in Kings Point New York.

Co Founder and current Board Direct of IRMS AFRICA Limited, a Nairobi based subsidary IRMS and also founder and current main Board Director KK Lodgit, Kenyan based specialised security company
TERRY DOWNES’s Specialties:
Development and implementation of customised integrated security solutions worldwide.

TERRY DOWNES’s Experience
Owner and Chief Executive Officer Integrated Risk Management Services (I-RMS)
(Security and Investigations industry)
2005 — Present (4 years)
IRMS was established in 2005, currently employes in excess of 350 full time staff and had a turnover in 2008 in excess of €8 million euro,
Founder and Former CEO FREIGHTWATCH INTERNATIONAL
(Security and Investigations industry)
1996 — 2001 (5 years)
Founder and former CEO Global Logistics Security company
Group Security Manager TNT
(Security and Investigations industry)
1992 — 1996 (4 years)
TNT one of the four Global Freight Integrator's with logistics operations on all continents.

Additional Information
TERRY DOWNES’s Websites:
http://www.i-rms.com/
TERRY DOWNES’s Interests:
Please refer to our web site. IRMS are currently focused on the development and implementation of customised special services within the security sector.

by Squid Sat Jun 13, 2009 15:38

Tv3 is watched by approximately the same number of people that read indymedia or take Eoghan Harris seriously. The distortions of Williams and his puppet masters in the ex orange stalinism brigade are best left to die the sorry death they deserve. Rather than taking cases to the BCI, the campaign needs to focus on putting forward its message in as coherant and impressive a manner as possible with the best spokespeople available. It is failing to do so at the moment.

by Cathar Sat Jun 13, 2009 15:41

From the IRMS website:
Quote:
Jim is a former Regimental Sergeant Major with the Irish army's special forces unit, Army Ranger Wing, specialising in Anti-Terrorist Intervention. Jim had direct responsibility for all training and operational matters. He organised, coordinated and participated in intensive cross-training with other European army special forces units in Germany, France, Holland and Sweden. He has served overseas in the Lebanon, Iraq, East Timor and in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As a former Special Forces Instructor, Jim brings undeniable expertise to many of our security risk sectors .
From Another Site:
Among the places Irish Army Rangers Training is carried out on is gas and oil rigs off Ireland's Atlantic coast,
Great place for a trainer to make contact with Shell E&P

by A10 Sat Jun 13, 2009 17:53

Wouldnt it be simple enough for some of yez who are that way inclined to go for a dive and actually see or film the damage to this boat???It would put some truth/lies to bed??
BTW dont read so much into all the training guff of the website of IMS founders..It is SOP in the industry to blow oneself out of all proportion.Plus the most of the Irish Army Ranger Wing are a bunch of overnlown bloew hards full of their own shite.Who have never done a real counter terrorist action either in Ireland or out of Ireland without making a complete balls of it! Folks,if ye stood up to them,they would shit and run!

by Coilín Sat Jun 13, 2009 20:37

A10 wrote:
"Wouldnt it be simple enough for some of yez who are that way inclined to go for a dive and actually see or film the damage to this boat???"

Would it? Do you have any experience in diving or underwater photography?

From what I have seen, it is difficult enough to take good photographs in perfectly clean water on the bottom of a swimming pool. The photo on this page demonstrates how poor visibility is likely to be even in clean, fresh water at very close range:
http://www.cuga.org/uwr.html
Note only fair visibility beyond about one metre, despite flash.

Never mind diving down to the murky depths of the seabed, where the keel of Pat's boat is likely to have settled into mud, sand and/or seaweed and the water is likely to be full of plankton, algae, mud particles, etc.

by Censored? Sat Jun 13, 2009 21:23

THe video of IRMS security guards verbally abusing Pat O'Donnell at the previously posted link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-RIyNGaous&NR=1 has been dubbed over with a sexually violent rap song by the poster (which is equally if not more offensive and gives some insight into the mentality of the security guard concerned.)

However the original version is now available here instead.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npNxpNiVaG4

Caption: Video Id: npNxpNiVaG4 Type: Youtube Video
Embedded video Youtube Video

by Michael Gallager - Photographer Sat Jun 13, 2009 22:20

The last time In looked (a few years ago), the cheapest underwater still camera in this country (placed on order that is), was €480.

Anyone buyin' or sellin' a camera?

The truth will out.

by the snapper Sun Jun 14, 2009 00:28

all you need is a waterproof housing for your cam. they're available for most makes and models and for the most part they're reasonably priced.

be safe everybody

by Mayoman Sun Jun 14, 2009 00:33

Not so long ago all the windows on the chiefs boat were smashed while tied up among many other undamaged boats in Belmullet. Which suggest somebody wants this man out of the way!!

by D Sun Jun 14, 2009 00:46

Why are people proposing to dive down to look at the boat? It would look exactly the same if a man in a balaclava had sunk it or if O'Donnell had done it himself.

by A10 Sun Jun 14, 2009 02:02

You obviously know sweet FA about diving or underwater photography.Yes,I am a qualified scuba diver and have dived the West Coast of Ireland for many years.You can take somtimes better photos in the Atlantic than in the Med betimes.COME ON one pic in a pool is not the same as a underwater photo in the Atlantic.So therefore this idea should be scrapped immediately????...???Lets see boat sank,this week this equals an immediate wreck and sunk into the mud at the same depth of the the Titanic...???In what Max 30meters of water????BULLSHIT!!!
Boats have been lifted in worse condition from twice that depth that have been down for years around the coast.That boat is a virgin wreck ,and could be lifted and salvaged no problem.....

D.Ever hear of forensic evidence???It would prove wether the story is true or wether it was a dodgy boat and insurance claim???
If your story about the boarding and scuttling is true,what have ye all to fear???Wouldnt it prove your story???Why such an aversion to provide evidence???OR is this really not what happened???

by anon - anon Sun Jun 14, 2009 02:57

i just flagged that you tube video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-RIyNGaous&NR=1

for hateful and abusive content ^ if thats posted by shell security staff well then ... ..

by Billy idle Sun Jun 14, 2009 06:40

And salvage the boat as part of their investigations. God knows they'd be quick enough off the mark if it were Shell on the receiving end of such an incident!!

by Barney Sun Jun 14, 2009 10:38

Guys, unfortunately nobody is buying Pat's story, I suppose its probally because by co incidence the boat was scuppered on the route of the pipeline he is trying to prevent, it was an old boat due to be replaced and his son just happened to be close by in the atlantic ocean at 2am in the morning and was in a position to assit and save Pat ( time to do the euro millions with those odds). I think that following the media PR disaster that followed Paul Williams true reflection of whats going on in Belmullet that shell 2 sea needed a dramatic twist to bring the little public support they have back, The police should seriously crack down on these thugs who have lost any support they have other than hippys and crusties who have no problem claiming the state dole payment dispite there distain for the state. Get jobs guys! like the hundreds of local people now working for shell at a time when jobs are scarce. Maybe it was a few disorientated somailai pirates who lost their bearings and took Pat's boat for an oil tanker, sounds more believable to me than Pats story. Maybe Ross Kemp will do a priates special from broadhaven bay.

by Turlough Sun Jun 14, 2009 10:45

Did you just use the word "Paul", "Williams" and "true" in the same sentence, without the inclusion of "arsehole?"

by old codger - pensioner Sun Jun 14, 2009 11:52

I can only assume tha your sir name is rubble as your malicious posting would be relevant to a neanderthal ranting.
Why are you not aking why the Gardai are not investigating the assault on Willie Corduff and the sinking of Pat's boat?
why is there not an imediate revocation of IRMS security by the licencing authority?
Why are the ministers O CUIVE and RYAN not issueing statements on these issues when they were warned in april at the Inver meeting?
THE ANSWERS TO THESE QUESTIONS ARE THAT THIS IS A POLITICAL ACT OF TREASON AGAINST EVERY IRISH CITIZEN EVEN SO CALLED PATRIOTS LIKE YOU ,I PRESUME.
IF IRMS IS ALLOWED TO HAVE A PRIVATE ARMY OF FORIEGN MERCENERIES THEN WHY CAN'T WE ORGANISE A PRIVATE ARMY?
WE ARE CONSTANTLY ACCUSED OF BEING THE IRA WHICH IS A LIE.
IF WE WERE, IRMS WOULD NOT GET AWAY WITHE THE CRIMES OF PIRACY AND AGRAVATED ASSAULT ON PEACE FULL IRISH CITIZENS.

by Horatio Grissom Holmes Sun Jun 14, 2009 13:19

Remember guys we don't need to get hung up on what trolls or churnalists say (that's not a typo by the way, a churnalist is someone with an NUJ card, who just churns out any old rubbish that their editor wants, or that some other source feeds them).

It matters what the public think, so by getting out there that he did call the cops, and that it's not an insurance job, the PR is on the right track and feck the begrudgers.

The general public knows that people don't get admitted to hospital for phantom injuries.
That fishermen don't sink their boats in a way that would get no insurance
That someone also fishing nearby, rescuing you after quite some time, having seen a flare doesn't mean they were expecting to come to your rescue.
It's Mr. O'Donnell's boat, not Shell to Sea's boat, not A10's boat, and Mr. O'Donnell or his solicitor will make the statements about what should be done with it or not.
All the rest is mere opinion on a website.
Some of it not well grounded in logic or attention to detail (though big on overblown ego)

Mr. O'Donnell is hardly likely to ask the camp to go diving on it is he?
Shell to Sea is not awash with money, time or scuba diving gear.
And also, of course, even if they had the gear and people, and the training, they would not be silly enough to go diving for evidence, until and unless advised of the situation by Mr. O'Donnell's solicitor, who might need to clarify the situation.
It's no just a 'virgin wreck' it's a crime scene, and the cops, given their attitude would be more likely to bring a malicious prosecution for 'interfering with a crime scene' than they would to ever actually check out the evidence themselves.

I

by A10 Sun Jun 14, 2009 15:37

WRONG AGAIN!!! Horatio,
As mr O Donnells boat is now sunk it becomes public property ....Crime scene notwithstanding.
Unless he applies to the reciver of wrecks and places it under the direct supervision of the state.A most unlikely occurance,since he is in conflict with the State.Anyone can dive on this wreck!
You would also think that he would want it cleared up that his boat was maliciously destroyed would you.Not to mind want to try and salvage the onboard equipment??
But of course if it is sunk conviently or maybe not in 90 meters of water,supposedly.It would make evidence recovery abit difficult.Not impossible mind,you are talking a TROMIX or technical dive,but still doable.
Dont tell us that S2S hasnt got some contact with Green peace or some other Eco crowd that wouldnt love to be involved in this nature rape in Broadhaven that isnt up to doing a dive like this???
Seems that neither side want this boat checked out or brought up. It is best if it just stayed sunk for both sides to claim their version of the story???

by Cathor Sun Jun 14, 2009 15:40

I noticed On Tibor Revesz's CV that he attended Scuba Diving Classes in 2009. Was he encouraged to do so by his employer's (at the time) IRMS. It is now offline.

Tibor is one of four former/current employees wanted for questioning in Bolivia in relation to the ten Man Terrorist cell of which he was a member (while employed by IRMS or on "leave") He also was the recruitment contact through his email address and most probably was the person who recruited Michael Dwyer.
Just to remind people he sold on his website military campaign type badges badges commemorating Operation Glengad & Operation Solitaire.
He was a team leader in Glengad.

by MIchael Gallagher - . Sun Jun 14, 2009 15:41 libertypics at yahoo dot ie

Start a nationwide petition based on the questions of the pipeline and the giveaway of our resources.

This will have twofold+ effect, information for the public at large and their support.

With the support of TD's and councillors etc on our side, the big questions could be raised in the Dáil, local councils and the EU.

Is one million signatures to ambitious to hope for, alongside more stalling actions by the brave?

I'm willing to give a few hours on weekends.

We are bankrupt, we need the full benefits of that gasfield and other resources

by old codger - pensioner Sun Jun 14, 2009 19:39

Why can't the Gardai use their own divers to investigate this serious crime? It wouldn't be because they are in colaboration with IRMS would it?
THEY HAVE BEEN TELLING SO MANY LIES THAT THERE IS ALMOST NO WAY OUT OF THE PREDICAMENT THAT THEY HAVE CREATED FOR THEMSELVES.

by Horatio Grissom Holmes Sun Jun 14, 2009 20:40

"WRONG AGAIN!!! Horatio,
As mr O Donnells boat is now sunk it becomes public property ....Crime scene notwithstanding."

Crime scene notwithstanding? My last point was that the crime scene is supposed to be preserved intact, and nobody should be diving on it unless they are Gardai to collect evidence, or working with Mr. O'Donnell's legal team to collect evidence, either for private prosecution or a civil suit.

Anyone else diving on it, would find that your 'public property' argument line wouldn't do them much good right now, unless the Gardai come out and state that they're not treating it as a crime. Do you think they're going to put a line of plastic crime scene tape drifting in the area?

I don't think anyone will mind people diving on it in a year's time or whatever, but a crime scene should be preserved.
Two men ended up in hospital, after being rescued from what they say was hijacking and deliberate sinking. That type of claim can't be left uninvestigated.
Even If you're mean spirited enough to think the man sank his own boat, surely you'd expect the cops to go and discover the method used. At the minimum they could do him for wasting Garda time, making a false complaint, no?
If on the other hand they do not wish to investigate what means were used to scuttle his ship, that says a lot about their committment to keeping the public safe, regardless of political views, and finding out the truth of these events.
A complaint was made to those people we pay to collect evidence and investigate complaints. They should go and collect evidence and find out what members of IRMS (or perhaps more importantly some of the other securtiy companies, like the ones that also work for them abroad, and also have military experience) have training in water based 'defense' or marine assault and then establish where these men were at 2am on the night in question.

by Margaret Sun Jun 14, 2009 21:37

I salute the courage and bravery of those who continue to protect the Environment,their health and safety,human rights and civil liberties.
In so doing they protect the IRISH CONSTIUTION for all of us.
THE NATURAL RESOURCES , OUR GAS AND OIL belong to the IRISH PEOPLE ,thats what our constiution says.
The false promise of jobs (SHELLS workforce will be Scottish OR like IRMS EMPLOYEES)
We WILL have GUARANTEED POLLUTION of our drinking water,our air (venting ,methane etc)our fishing industry destroyed and IRELAND will pick up the bill as they already are in breach of the KYOTI AGREEMENT ON EMISSIONS.
IT IS A BASIC HUMAN RIGHT TO LIVE IN YOUR HOME WITHOUT FEAR

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland2009/0604/12....html

by John Sun Jun 14, 2009 23:24

The most disturbing aspect of all this is the apparent official and partial public acceptance that in order to get the job done a few laws may have to be broken. The fact that they may also be broken by those charged with upholding those same laws is viewed as all part of breaking eggs to make omelets.

When the watchdogs of democracy, ie. the Press, to their eternal shame, refuse to bark and even collaborate in these illegalities then we should realise that democracy and the rule of law in Ireland are now in a very precarious position.

by Mayoman Sun Jun 14, 2009 23:49

Barney you sound like one of the few people who take Paul Williams seriously. Therefore I can't take you seriously!!

by Mayoman Mon Jun 15, 2009 02:34

Your making alot of assumptions there A10. There has been a helluva alot of compaints to local gardai about the activities of IRMS personell in Erris. None have been properly investigated notably the recent assault on Wille Corduff at Shells illegal Glengad compound. As the Chief has been on the receiving end of some Shells cop policing on a number of occasions the likelyhood this incident will be seriously and competently investigated is rated rather low locally. Particualry after the cops iniatially claimed they received no call about the incident and then had to own up to that little lie.

by Mayoman Mon Jun 15, 2009 02:38

We also know that IRMS was and possibly still are employing well trained East European right wing paras who would be well capable of carrying out such an incident

by Chrissie Mon Jun 15, 2009 08:46

The Irish press are casting unfounded aspersions on Mr O'Donnell's account of events, yet it's barely credible that he would sink his own 'ageing' boat & livelihood without the chance of insurance cover. The Garda accounts are highly biased, & insinuating that no crime took place, when no real investigation has even started.

by Billy idle Mon Jun 15, 2009 09:13

Most of them are a joke and thankfully many will be bankrupt soon including possibly RTE

by MARGARET Mon Jun 15, 2009 09:53

IRISH DAILY MAIL -(mon april 20th-2009)

A former colleague who also worked with Michael Dwyer in Mayo describing his workmates is quoted as saying "I think the guys he went travelling with were a different kettle of fish,these guys were heavy hitters trained in all things military"

IRMS say MICHAEL DWYER worked with them up to OCT-20 -2008.
Meanwhile,
GARDA GET INTERPOL AID ON CORRIB PROTESTERS--(irish times SEPT -1 -2008)

by Martin Sand Mon Jun 15, 2009 10:21

"...initiating a complaint which would lead to an investigation of the crime of which he is victim "

Did you veiw the video interveiw above? Pat has made numerous complaints to the Garda to no avail,he has clearly lost any faith in the "justice"system here in Ireland which has only ever had s2s protesters and local fishermen before the courts .

A crime is being committed >area of conservation being destroyed by construction without planning permission for one.
Wher are the Garda to investigate that?

by A.R Mon Jun 15, 2009 11:43

Michael D Higgins raises the issue in the Dail;

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/0615/1...3.htm

by A10 Mon Jun 15, 2009 11:47

Folks,which way do you want this??
You are protesting rightly or wrongly against Shell and the Gardai etc.But OTOH you want them to investigate a crime that occured against one of your own,and then if it doesnt suit or goes against all your saying.Will you accept the Garda investigation outcome as the final say in the matter?? I doubt it very much.It sounds like a terrorist after blowing up a 100 people and being arrested,demanding an investigation by the same force who arrested him for police brutality while he was in custody.

So the only way to find this out is to get an independant non biased investigation of the wreck.
If the events as described by S2S are true and the evidence concurs you all win.
If not you lose,Gardai&Shell wins.
But it seems both camps dont want to do this lest they be proven wrong.

by A10 Mon Jun 15, 2009 12:00

So whoever planned this were heavy hitting scuba trained Right wing paramilitaries from the East block??They come equipped with wetsuits,handguns,zodiacs etc,from some tupenny hapenny Irish security company.They go to sink a basically glorified rowing boat,and it takes them an hour and a half????What were they doing??? This is the time the Isrealis took to free their hostages in Entebbe in the 1970s
If it is as aging a boat as all claims go,you would not need an hour to sink it.Taking time stopping even for a fag and a brew up,they would have been done smashing the engine coolant intake and outlet valves and smashing the bottom boards no more than 10 mins.
It sounds like a very" Irish special operation" to me.

by Fearbolg - S2S Mon Jun 15, 2009 12:11

You're working too hard at this, fella. Go an lie down for a while and when u come bak u might find someone's taken the bait. Although I doubt it.

by Máire Mon Jun 15, 2009 12:23

IRMS may not be the only security company that Shell is using in Erris. It has been known to utilise the services of Control Risks.. This is a global operator far larger and slicker than IRMS. 'Control Risks enables its clients to succeed in complex business or hostile business environments'. Frogmen, stealth, and scuppering would be an afternoon stroll for these guys.

by Ray - Cork Shell to Sea Mon Jun 15, 2009 12:37

Checked A10 out on a disambiguation page on wikipedia. It includes a section on 'Military'. Explains our troll in an indirect sort of way. But is he Walter Mitty or the 'real thing'? There's also a section on 'Transport', but I somehow doubt that's what our friend who dwells under bridges is referrring to. Doesn't strike me as a basketball fan either. See the link provided.

by you talking to me Mon Jun 15, 2009 12:50

they will not stop it does not matter who is up against them the skull and bones is running through the veins of this emerald isle ENDA KENNY , IRISH RANGERS, SPECIAL BRANCH, NAVY, GUARDS, BERTIE BUNCH, SHELL SHAREHOLDERS, i am one person alone with thousands behind me

by Kiwi Mon Jun 15, 2009 13:05

Hard to believe that such activities such as sinking boats of peaceful protesters by highly trained special agents could happen but it does.
Anyone remember the Rainbow warrior? Opération Satanique? foreign agents sunk the boat to prevent her interfering with French nuclear tests in Moruroa atol a south pacific island?

Two days after the sinking the French Embassy in Wellington issued a statement echoing the flat denials being sent from Paris. "In no way is France involved. The French Government doesn't deal with its opponents in such ways." Yet, only a few days later police arrested two French secret service agents.

Big difference is this occured in New Zealand and the police force there took action whereas if this had occured in Ireland i doubt we would ever have heard the names Alain Mafart and Dominique Prieur.

by PADI Mon Jun 15, 2009 15:57

A10: ".It would make evidence recovery a bit difficult.Not impossible mind,you are talking a TROMIX or technical dive,but still doable."

That's "TRIMIX" A10!! Stop misedumecatin' folk!!.
There's enough ignorance in the world without your posts further perpetuating it. If your diving is as competent as your spelling, then I'm surprised you haven't drowned already!

Or perhaps I'm incorrect and TROMIX does actually exist and is a special gas blend given to deep diving TROLLS. I have a few suggestions as to what should be in that mix!!!

Pat, very sorry to hear about your boat...Solidarity and best wishes...

by motive? Mon Jun 15, 2009 16:11

1. The trawler was insured for 60,000 euro which will not be paid given the circumstances of the sinking. If this WAS an insurance scam he would have sunk the boat and pretended it was an accident not the other way round. Insurance scams after all revolve around making false claims not falsely disqualifying yourself from making a claim as A10 suggests above.

2. The trawler was one of Pat's main sources of livelihood and is now gone. This is, again, a major loss.

3. The sunken trawler isn't on the pipeline route. Shell themselves have admitted this. Therefore as some kind of protest tactic it's highly ineffective.

4. Given the previous Garda and media response to Willie Corduff's attack there was absolutely no reason to imagine that Pat sinking the trawler himself and making a false claim would somehow bring attention to what's happeing in Rossport in a positive light for Pat or Shell To Sea. Looking at current media coverage you can see why. The Garda response, based on Garda response to the last 10 years of protests in Mayo, was always going to be...there's no evidence, pat made it up. Any would be attackers would be well aware of this dynamic beforehand and so feel that they can commit serious attacks protesters with near impunity.

Finally it's worth comparing the records of those involved. Pat O'Donnell has no convictions prior to his involvement in the Shell To Sea campaign and received an award for rescuing a garda from a flooded cave some time ago.

Shell just paid out 15.5 million due to their involvement, admitted or not, in the murder of Ken Saro Wiwa and 8 others. It has committed serious environmental damage around the world and has an terrible safety record which has led to the deaths of many of it's workers. Their international record and reputation is atrocious.

I-RMS employed, and probably employs, fascists from eastern europe. It offers armed international 'special services'. The fascist group, the szekler legion, had such strong connections to I-RMS and Shell that they sold badges on their website with their own version of the shell logo and had their members in rossport split into at least three separate teams which would indicate a relatively large number of their members working in rossport...

What do Shell/IRMS have to gain?

1. Pat O'Donnells lobster pots lie in the pipeline route. They are unable to remove them without Pat's permission. By sinking his boat they can reduce the amount of time the pots are supervised by Pat and his family.

2.Pat is a vocal and determined opponent to the project. Using guns to intimidate him into silence and accepting their money would be of hge advantage to them.In addition this will put signifcant financial strain on Pat O'Donnell which will again limit his ability to protest against Shell's actions.A youtube video mentioned above shows clearly their attitude to Pat O'Donnell and other protesters (and indeed irish people in general).

3. Carrying out such a serious assault sends another clear message to the local community that Shell/IRMS are willing actively threaten peoples lives in order to push their pipeline through. This is intended to further intimidate the local community into backing down and letting Shell have their way.

by Cather Mon Jun 15, 2009 17:55

In a case for allehed assault against Maura Harrington the allegedly assaulted IRMS employee Bogdar Wasniak on 12/6/08 .one of the two witnesseswas Mr Gregors Yeankowsi another IRMS employee. None of the three were wearing identification and the two people named were not
registered with the PSA then or since. The case commencede on the day Maura was jailed
The other witness with Mr Bartish Saboska who is probably the Bartosz Sobotka who registered on 14/04/09..
None of the employees were registered on the day of the Assault.
At the next hearing Judge Devins asked that the mens employers attend Court because of the stories circulating about Bolivia.
At the following appearance

Following a request by Judge Mary Devins for the prosecution in an assault case involving Maura Harrington to go back to the DPP in light of recent media reports about the connection between IRMS staff — who were witnesses in the case — and issues in Bolivia in relation to the credibility of these witnesses, and that the security employers may be called into court, Superintendent Frank Walsh outlined that DPP direction was not for the employers to be called into court, that any involvement with the security company outside of the jurisdiction should not be examined, and that evidence should be based on the veracity of the two witnesses.

at the Hearing
Mr Gannon said that the security personnel were not wearing identification which he said was contrary to the Private Security Act. He said the Gardaí did not investigate this even though the penalties for such matters are more serious than for the charges against his client.
Supt Larkin said the witnesses were clear...... He added that the Private Security Regulator had investigated complaints and they had made the decision that the security guards were entitled to exemptions in the circumstances.

This is despite the fact that none of them were registered at the time.!!!!!!!!!
THE Private Security Act does not give exemption under any circumstances but a reasonable excuse canbe ofered in defense.

In the Dangerous Driving Case the IRMS employee Keith O'Sullivan the witness with the bluetooth phone is also not registered with the PSA.

Can somebody please foward these Details to Maura Harrington and Or Solicitor Mr. Gannon.
These cases are due again in court on July the 14th.

by Ken Lee Mon Jun 15, 2009 19:15

"Checked A10 out on a disambiguation page on wikipedia. It includes a section on 'Military'. Explains our troll in an indirect sort of way. But is he Walter Mitty or the 'real thing'? There's also a section on 'Transport', but I somehow doubt that's what our friend who dwells under bridges is referrring to. Doesn't strike me as a basketball fan either. See the link provided."

Anyone ever heard of plain old english? For the ignorant like me and the fans of 'Shanks' (Bill Shankly), and as the man said himself, "Why use a four syllable word when two syllables will do"?

Can ya keep yor metaphors a bit simpler or just explain them, I'm drownin' here.

by Sus Mon Jun 15, 2009 19:32

Maura Harrington states that neither man can swim. Fishermen that can't swim??? Im sure that "The Chief" is not stupid enough to go out to sea year after year to fish the sea for a living on the wild atlantic ocean without being able to swim..............is he? Do men with a licence to fish such as " The Chief" not have to undergo a sea survival course where im pretty sure swimming would play a fairly big part?

by captain birdseye Mon Jun 15, 2009 20:01

"There was a curious tendency in past times for seamen to be unable to swim. This was perhaps based on an idea that to learn would be to tempt fate, or that if the sea wants to take you it will not be cheated and there is nothing you can do to prevent it."

by Michael Gallagher Mon Jun 15, 2009 20:03 libertypics at yahoo dot ie

If a frog doesn't croak, it doesn't mean it ain't a frog.

I just hope RTE get their act together on this, my video is programmed tonight for Primetime (just in case I fall asleep). Anyone got links to Dail Question Time, I know I will be asleep when that's on?

Fair play to Michael J. Higgins.....now, we might see a few more ripples........

by D Mammy Mon Jun 15, 2009 20:37 W. Cork

Anyone remotely connected to the fishing community in Ireland knows that for the most part FISHERMEN DON'T SWIM. They reckon it prolongs the agony of drowning, The idea being that if the boat goes down it's probably not going to do so within easy swimming distance of a friendly shore, so you have a liferaft and lifejackets, it would not be easy to decide which way to swim anyway in the usual conditions off the Irish coast, you can't see much with your face at sea level even with a minor swell. Safety at sea is built around safe use of boats and equipment, correct maintenance and use of safety gear. Arrival of rescue boats can take hours in bad weather (or even in good weather, in the dark) So the ability to swim won't help you much, and as a non-swimmer a fishermen will be pretty damn quick to get organised in the event of a boat sinking.