Environmentalist Removed from Cruise Panel

Thu, January 21, 2010
Posted in Alaska News

State officials have removed a prominent environmental activist from a cruise-ship science panel. Gershon Cohen of Haines was one of nine people named earlier this month to a committee charged with looking at wastewater treatment options. Cohen co-sponsored a 2006 citizens’ initiative that imposed stringent new standards on the cruise industry. Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Larry Hartig took Cohen off the committee after hearing complaints, some from cruise-ship advocates.

Ed Schoenfeld, CoastAlaska – Juneau

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Comments

Bob Andrews

So, Elizabetk K, would you classify those in support of the cruise industry unbiased? Who will keep them honest, or maybe that isn't necessary as all that smoke and toxic dumping is in the past?
Perhaps you need to look up the meaning of the word, "bias".
Elizabeth K

I support the decision to remove Mr. Cohen from the panel. His vacant seat would be better filled by one who does not have the long history of allowing his bias to overshadow a balanced and proactive solution.
Bob Andrews

"Bias" is an improper term thrown at Cohen. The man is an excellent scientist and his views are based on observation. Is there to be no one to offer an opposing view to the cruise industry. Oh yeah, I get it, fair and balanced…
Bull_Lion

We live a world where dissenting opinions are no longer valued.