New Zealand’s Defence Minister, Judith Collins, has expressed outrage at the derogatory and sexist comments made online towards the female captain of a navy ship that sank off the coast of Samoa. The ship ran aground, caught fire, and ultimately sank, prompting a wave of misogynistic remarks directed at Commander Yvonne Gray. Collins condemned these remarks as “vile” and “misogynistic,” urging for more respectful behaviour towards women in the military.
She highlighted the need for gender equality in the armed forces, emphasising that Commander Gray, with 30 years of naval experience, acted decisively to ensure the safety of all 75 individuals on board. Collins called out individuals making derogatory comments, including a truck driver from Melbourne, Australia, stating that such behaviour must be addressed and stopped.
Despite the ship’s tragic fate, all onboard were safely evacuated with minor injuries. The cause of the incident remains unknown, sparking investigations by New Zealand’s government alongside concerns of a potential fuel spill. Efforts are underway to address environmental impacts and remove the vessel’s wreckage from the reef without further damage.
Collins stood in solidarity with Commander Gray and Major General Rose King, highlighting that appointments in the military are based on merit rather than gender. The sinking of the navy ship has also shed light on the condition of New Zealand’s military hardware, with warnings issued about the fragility of the navy due to maintenance and staffing issues.
The incident has prompted a military court of inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the sinking, as New Zealand grapples with the aftermath of the devastating loss at sea. The resilience and professionalism displayed by the naval personnel during the crisis have been commended, highlighting the dedication and bravery of those serving in the country’s armed forces.