[Greens-Media] Greens demand answers on Burrup

[Twomey, Chris (Sen R. Siewert)]

Wednesday 12th September 2007

Greens demand answers on Burrup

Senator Rachel Siewert, today called on the Government to ensure that
the priceless cultural heritage of the Burrup peninsula was protected. 

"We understand the WA EPA has given the go ahead for preparatory work on
the Pluto Area B site on the Burrup, and that this work could start at
anytime. We are very concerned that this may affect the cultural values
of the area" said Senator Siewert.

"The Wong-Goo-Tt-Oo native title group have applied to have this area
declared a Significant Aboriginal Area. Today in the Senate the
Government was unable to tell me when the assessment of the application
would be completed. Nor would they say if the area would be protected
while the assessment process was underway".

"When does the Minister intend to make a decision relating to the
application?" asked Senator Siewert in the Senate. "Will the area be
protected while the Minister is making a decision?" 

Neither of these questions were answered.

It is essential that none of the cultural values of the area are
disturbed or affected by any preparatory activity" said Senator Siewert.
 
"If Malcolm Turnbull fails to guarantee the protection of this area
while he is taking his time to make a decision, then he is in effect
responsible for the fate of a significant number of unique works of
Aboriginal rock art."

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

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

RESCUE THE SENATE

Senator Rachel Siewert
Australian Greens Spokesperson on Aboriginal Affairs