Friends of the Earth Brisbane
member Queensland Nuclear Free Alliance
Mobile 0411 118 737


Media Release October 26, 2006
Ferguson uranium push not welcome in Queensland

Action: Picket Martin Ferguson’s uranium consultation
Photo opportunity with Radioactive Koala and speakers from:
Medical Association for the Prevention of War, Queensland Nuclear Free Alliance and more
Date: Thursday October 26
Time: 5:30pm
Place: Labor Party office, Trades & Labor Council Building
16 Peel St, South Brisbane

Queensland Peace and Environment groups reject the pro-uranium spruiking of Shadow Minister for Resources, Martin Ferguson, in Brisbane today.

"Ferguson's visit is an attempt by this renegade Labor member to convince his Queensland party members that the uranium dollar is more important than the dangers it poses. Uranium is a dangerous, toxic substance which should be left in the ground," states Friends of the Earth spokesperson Robin Taubenfeld.

"Shadow Resource Minister Martin Ferguson’s support for expanding this industry shows he values the dollar over workers, the environment and the wider community."

Mr. Ferguson will be in Brisbane tonight for a members-only Labor Policy Consultation, which will review Labor’s uranium policy. Mr. Ferguson is leading the push for Labor to change its "No New Mines" policy at next year’s national conference. Queensland Labor will play a key role to play in deciding the policy’s fate.

"The reasons behind the 'No New Uranium Mines' policy are as relevant now as they were at its inception. The policy must not change."

"As Opposition Resource spokesperson, Mr. Ferguson should be promoting workers’ rights to work in healthy and safe industries in at home and overseas, not toeing the line with the Howard government on uranium and nuclear power."

"The nuclear industry puts workers, the environment and the community at risk at all stages. Both the mining industry and nuclear power industry are fraught with accidents. Some uranium may end up in weapons and all uranium ends up as nuclear waste," Ms. Taubenfeld adds.

"It’s time for Labor to show some clear leadership and opposition on this issue. Beazley has taken a stand on the climate, now he and Ferguson must end the uranium debate."

"Labor should be reviewing their “No New Mines” policy – but with a view to closing the existing mines, not opening more.”

Friends of the Earth and Queensland Nuclear Free Alliance members will be outside the Policy Consultation in support of the many Labor Party members who oppose uranium mining and to send a clear message to Martin Ferguson that ueenslanders
will not tolerate an expansion to this industry.

For more info: Friends of the Earth Brisbane spokesperson Robin Taubenfeld 0411 118 737