[Greens-Media] Greens back community groups on Indigenous action

[Twomey, Chris (Sen R. Siewert)]

Tuesday 26th June 2007

Greens back community groups on Indigenous action

The Australian Greens support and congratulate the community
organisations for their response to the Government's 'emergency'
intervention in the Northern Territory.

"I agree with their contention in their letter to the Minister for
Indigenous Affairs today that, in their present form, the proposals miss
the mark and are unlikely to be effective," said Senator Siewert. 

A wide range of non-government organisations and community leaders are
in Canberra this week to finalise their plan to deliver safety and
development to Indigenous communities through a bottom-up approach. 

"The Howard Government's top-down, bring in the army approach is in
direct contrast with the recommendations of the 'Little Children are
Sacred' report -- which repeatedly recommends consultation and
empowerment of Indigenous communities," she said.

"Mr Howard - where are the billions of dollars that are needed for
housing, education, health, counselling and rehabilitation?

"This is the real cost of doing nothing for a decade," concluded Senator
Siewert.

	           
For more information or comment call 
Chris Twomey on 0407 725 025

Email senator.siewert at aph.gov.au
http://www.rachelsiewert.org.au

Copies of the letter and the list of signatories are available on
request


Senator Rachel Siewert
Australian Greens spokesperson on Indigenous Affairs