[Greens-Media] Back-off on compulsory examinations underscores need for consultative approach in N.T

[Cameron, Prue (Sen B. Brown)]

Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Mal Brough's sledgehammer announcement
last week that all Aboriginal children would be examined for evidence of
sexual abuse, created pointless alarm in Aboriginal communities.

Greens Leader, Senator Bob Brown, said today "It was not 'bullies' in
remote communities but the Minister's own militaristic announcement that
created the unnecessary alarm". 

"As I said on the day, compulsory examination against the wishes of
parents or children would be neither ethical nor legal. The Minister
should have known better". Senator Brown said.

"Medical examination of children - and there can be no racial dividing
line in this - must be based on trust, time consuming talks, and
involvement of families and communities." Senator Brown said. 
(See Dr Maureen Davey's speech attached)

"I agree with the Minister that urgent action is required to protect
children. But it has to be action based on the child's right to have
potential added shame and psychological scarring minimised", Senator
Brown said.

Further information: Richard Denniss 0438 962 998

Prue Cameron
Advisor
Senator Bob Brown
GPO Box 404 
Hobart TAS 7001

Ph: 03 6224 3222 (Hobart)
Ph: 02 6277 3170 (Canberra)

Fax 03 6224 2999 (Hobart)
Fax 02 6234 1577 (Canberra)
Mob: 0408 473 379

www.bobbrown.org.au