South African government takes another bold step in marine protection

As part of government's continued efforts in the protection of the country's marine resources, the Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Ms Rejoice Mabudafhasi, will on Wednesday 18th May 2005 accept the 3rd of four environmental protection vessels in Cape Town.

The state-of-the-art vessel, to be christened Ruth First, has been locally manufactured as part of the department's Marine Protection Strategy and will be sent to sea immediately after it has been christened.

Since the launch of the first two vessels, the Lillian Ngoyi and Sarah Baartman, there has been a dramatic decrease in illegal fishing and poaching in South African waters.

The patrol vessels are named after women who through their courage, dedication and commitment, had an immense contribution to South Africa 's liberation.

Event details are as follows:

Date: Wednesday, 18 May 2005
Venue: V&A Waterfront, North Wharf Jetty (in front of Aquarium/Bay front of Blue Restaurant
Time: 10h00

Members of the media are invited to the event.

Source: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism