Saturday, 28 April, 2007

ECNT

Environment organisations are committed to stopping uranium mines anywhere in Australia, despite the disappointing outcome of the uranium policy vote at the ALP conference today.

In a very close vote (190:205), Labor members standing up for environmental and social responsibility were out numbered – but only just.

"It was fantastic to hear the strong, clear arguments presented by those wanting to maintain the policy. But sadly logic and commonsense were thrown out the back door along with the wishes of most Australians" said Michaela Stubbs spokesperson from Friends of the Earth.

Speakers in support of the change failed to address the key issues of nuclear weapons proliferation and waste management. The lack of coherence in their arguments clearly demonstrated that this decision was based on politics rather than principles.

"While the negative impacts of uranium mining on indigenous communities was raised in the debate, those voting to change the policy obviously didn’t see this as important" said Emma King, Beyond Nuclear Initiative uranium campaigner from the Environment Centre of the NT.

"We will continue working closely with indigenous communities to make sure their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed."