Thursday, 15 February, 2007

Alice Action

Alice residents involved in presenting the Nuclear Free Zone petition discussed at the Alice Springs Council meeting last Monday are asking Aldermen to revisit the comment that the 100 strong turnout was not indicative of public opinion in the town.

Clare Woods, who was present at the meeting, pointed out that “the plan to make Alice Springs a dry zone is a highly contentious and topical issue in town, yet only 40 people attended last night’s Council information session. The Nuclear Free Zone petition, supported by over 1200 residents and 130 local businesses, was discussed in a packed Council chamber. This shows that the issue is extremely important to many residents and should be taken very seriously by the Aldermen.”

“At the next Council meeting on February 26, we are expecting an even bigger turnout. The 6:30 timeslot is much easier for people to attend after work, and this will be the final vote on the issue by Council. Everyone who supports the community proposal to make Alice a Nuclear Free Zone is strongly encouraged to attend,” added Jayne Alexander from Alice Action community group, who collected many of the signatures presented to Council.

“As well as wanting to see a more visual representation of community support, some of the Aldermen expressed that they did not feel across the issue enough to vote in favour of the Nuclear Free Zone motion. This is despite having been sent quite a lot of information and having all been personally contacted by supporters to discuss and clarify any points or concerns. We are sure they will now take time before the next meeting to find out why so many people believe it is a positive vision for the town,” concluded Natalie Wasley, from the Arid Lands Environment Centre- Beyond Nuclear Initiative.