Unions NT has resolved to step up the fight against federal government legislation which would impose a radioactive waste dump at Muckaty, 120kms north of Tennant Creek.

Traditional Owners from the Muckaty Land Trust recently visited Darwin and called for union support in the campaign to stop the waste dump, stating it would destroy significant spiritual sites, damage the country and put at risk their children’s health and future.

NT Electrical Trades Union organiser Michael Haire said: “Unions NT pledged to continue the campaign in solidarity with Traditional Owners and the community of Muckaty and Tennant Creek. We strongly oppose the National Radioactive Waste Management Bill, expected to pass the Senate in May, and reject any legislation which would continue to target Muckaty Station, or any site in the Northern Territory for a nuclear waste dump.”

“We will support the actions of Traditional Owners, communities and trade unionists who refuse to cooperate with the imposition of a waste dump in the NT.”

Muckaty Traditional Owners also invited Unions NT to participate in a national delegation to Muckaty mid year to see firsthand the breadth of community opposition to the waste dump.

Dianne Nampin Stokes from the Yapa Yapa group of Muckaty says: “Union support is very important for us to try and stop the waste dump. Martin Ferguson’s new law names Muckaty as the one site for the waste dump but he will not listen to us when we say no. The government is determined it will go ahead but we are determined to stop them.”

Michael Haire concluded “Trade unions have historically played a crucial role in standing up for Aboriginal rights. This year is the 45th anniversary of the Wave Hill walk-off and Unions NT are proud to remember that struggle and again fight alongside Traditional Owners to defend hard-won land rights and stop a radioactive waste dump”