[Greens-Media] Greens call for a rational approach to nuclear waste

[Ludlam, Scott (Sen R. Siewert)]

Senator Rachel Siewert

Australian Greens Senator for WA
MEDIA RELEASE



Wenesday, 31 August 2005

Greens call for a rational approach to nuclear waste
Senator Siewert has called for a rational approach to dealing with the
emotive issue of nuclear waste.

"The Greens are opposed to dumping the waste in the Northern Territory
because of the huge risk involved in its transport," she said. 

Transporting highly radioactive material is the most risky part of the
nuclear chain that leads from uranium mining to nuclear waste. The best
way to reduce this risk is to keep the waste as close to the point of
production as possible.

"The most sensible solution is to stop producing the waste," said
Senator Siewert. 

"We don't need another 'research' reactor to replace Lucas Heights," she
said, "The claims that it is needed for medical isotopes are spurious -
there are safer and cheaper ways available that don't produce nearly as
much waste."

Senator Siewert has challenged the Federal Government to come clean on
the amount of nuclear waste Australia will be expecting to produce in
the future.
"This dump looks like it is a foot in the door that will lead to
Australia becoming a dumping ground for the world's nuclear waste, or
the first step towards a domestic nuclear power industry," said Senator
Siewert.

"We need to deal sensibly with the waste problem we already have in a
fashion that minimises the risk," she said.

Senator Siewert also argues that it is not enough to say no to the waste
dump - we need to stop the generation of waste and stop mining uranium.
It is hypocritical for states and territories to profit from uranium
export knowing we will be left with a massive waste problem. 

"Australia needs to take responsibility for dealing with its own waste."


For more information or comment call Chris Twomey on 0407 725 025
Email senator.siewert at aph.gov.au  |  http://www.rachelsiewert.org.au