The US Coast Guard yesterday created a military security zone in Hawai’i’s Nawiliwili (NA-WILLIE-WILLIE) Harbor. Hundreds of people protested in the Harbor Monday, angry at the plans for the new Superferry in Hawai’i.
The Superferry has stirred controversy in Hawai’i because it has begun service without an environmental impact statement. However, Hawai’i’s Supreme Court ruled Friday that the ferry must undergo an environmental assessment.
Rich Hoeppner is a founder of the Superferry Impact group, and President of People for the preservation of Kaua’i .
Some protesters were also concerned about the Superferry’s possible military uses. The ferry has joined a program allowing the military to use it during wars and national emergencies.
Breaching the security zone around the Superferry can be punished by arrest, possible ten year prison sentences, and ten thousand dollar fines.
- KBOO