[Greens-Media] O’Farrell caves in to religious right in ethics stoush

[John Kaye]

O’Farrell caves in to religious right in ethics stoush

Media release: 11 September 2010

NSW Opposition Leader Barry O’Farrell has provided NSW voters with a glimpse of a future Coalition government’s move to the right with his attack on ethics classes in public schools, according to Greens NSW MP John Kaye. ('O'Farrell won't commit to ethics classes’ SMH on line breaking news http://bit.ly/aap100911)

Dr Kaye said: "Having voted for the same sex adoption legislation, Barry O’Farrell is now trying to appease the religious right in his party by refusing to commit to the ethics classes as alternatives for students who opt out of scripture classes in public schools.

"On behalf of the conservative organised religions, Upper House Liberal MP David Clarke has led a campaign of vilification against the ethics option.

"Last night on ABC TV Stateline Mr O’Farrell rehashed the usual illogical propaganda against providing an alternative for children whose parents do not subscribe to a religion on offer or believe that spiritual matters should not be dealt with at school.

"Voters in next March’s state election should be very wary of a Coalition that wants to limit outcomes in public schools to placate an extremist minority.

"The Greens call on all parties to abide by the outcomes Dr Sue Knight’s evaluation of the trial.

"Parents have already reported overwhelming support for the ethics options with almost seventy P&Cs voting in favour of making the trial permanent.

"They want children who opt out of the one hour a week Special Religious Education class to be given an alternative to being let loose in the playground or watching videos.

"Mr O’Farrell should rise above the pressure from the conservative churches," Dr Kaye said. 

Note: The full interview with Opposition Leader Barry O’Farrell is available on ABC TV Stateline NSW Friday 10 September 2010 at http://bit.ly/sl100911

For more information:	John Kaye 0407 195 455