Queensland Nuclear Free Alliance

Media Release April 27 2007

Radioactive leak in Rudd's electorate a wake up call: Labor must not fuel deadly nuclear chain

Queensland Nuclear Free Alliance (QNFA) calls on all Labor Party members to vote with their conscience when considering any changes to uranium policy at this weekend's national conference.

"None of the problems surrounding uranium have been solved since Labor adopted its long-held "no new mines" policy," states QNFA spokesperson Robin Taubenfeld,"and there is no justification for that policy to change."

"Uranium is still a toxic, radioactive, heavy metal. It still contaminates the environment where it is
mined, uses vast amounts of water turning it in to intractable radioactive waste and still threatens
surrounding communities and communities along the transportation route.
Nuclear power and nuclear weapons still pose grave threats to humankind."

Labor Party leader Kevin Rudd is expected to propose changes to ALP policy to that would allow more mines in Australia.

"The discovery of a serious radioactive leak in his own electorate, should be a wake up call to the Labor leader and a reminder of the hazards associated with the nuclear industry," Ms Taubenfeld states.

Radioactive Tritium which was found to have been leaking from an army workshop in Bulimba, Qld, is proven to cause cancer, genetic mutation and birth defects.

Tritium is one of the many hazardous substances produced in, and regularly released from, nuclear
power reactors.

"Whether at home or overseas, radioactive materials are dangerous and nuclear power is not safe."

"Australia has the opportunity to be a leader in investing in and exporting renewable energy technology
and promoting sustainable development with our trading partners."

"Exporting uranium is exporting death. Labor Party leaders must consider what kind of future they want for their children and refuse to the deadly global nuclear chain."

For more information:
Queensland Nuclear Free Alliance, Robin Taubenfeld,
0411 118 737