[Greens-Media] Greens applaud incoming condom consignment

[Kristian Bolwell]

MEDIA RELEASE
31 March 2005

Greens applaud incoming condom consignment

Greens MP Lee Rhiannon has congratulated the US company that will
deliver 6000 condoms to a NSW Hunter Valley town all because the local
chemist still refuses to stock contraceptives.

"Condoms play an important part in reducing the transmission of
sexual diseases and allowing people to take responsibility for birth
control.  For those reasons alone, it's essential that chemists take
the lead in helping the community manage these serious issues", Lee
Rhiannon said.

"It's a bit sad that this chemist appears to be stuck in the
1950's.

"As part of a chemists license, pharmacists should be required to
sell contraceptives. Surely that's not too controversial.  After all
condoms provide a critical role in reducing sexually transmitted
disease.
 
"I will be following up this policy with the NSW Minister for Health
when Parliament resumes next week.

"Chemists that refuse to sell condoms are like pubs that don't sell
beer. 

"Everyone should have the right to practice safe sex - it's 2005
after all. 

"Outdated morality has no place in a chemist shop", Ms Rhiannon
said.


More information:  Kristian Bolwell, 9230 3551, 0411638320