Judge Grants Shell Restraining Order Against Greenpeace Protesters

As concerns and protests continue to fly regarding Shell’s plans to start exploratory drilling in the U.S. Arctic, an Alaskan federal judge has now declared a temporary restraining order forbidding Greenpeace activists from launching actions against Shell’s two drilling rigs at the oil company’s request.

This will prevent activists from repeating their recent act off New Zealand – see report here – for the moment. Shell legal officials state that Greenpeace has solidified their intent to do whatever it takes to kick oil companies out of the Arctic. Most importantly, it is extremely dangerous for any small boat or diver to attempt to obstruct the towing of a drilling rig into the Arctic Ocean.

This new official order bars Greenpeace supporters from interfering with the operation of either drilling rig in U.S. waters and orders them not to barricade or trespass onto the vessels, according to the Los Angeles Times. The ruling, however, stopped short of granting a safety zone around Shell’s Arctic operations, nor did it encompass Greenpeace USA actions against all of Shell’s U.S. operations. Those requests would have to be argued further in court later, according to court reports.

A Shell representative stated that it’s unfortunate that legal action was required to protect its property. However, they feel it was necessary as the boarding of the Noble Discoverer last week endangered crewmembers, as well as the protesters. They are open to discussion regarding the challenges and benefits of working in the Arctic.

A Greenpeace USA spokesman maintained that their protest was peaceful, and these recent actions are not even affecting those involved with the recent protest.