ACTU: Government Lacks Leadership

Date: 05 April 2000

The Government should hang its head in shame at the hurt it is inflicting on Aboriginal people with its blind insistence that there was 'never a generation of stolen children' and its refusal to act against mandatory sentencing.

ACTU Secretary Greg Combet said today it was time for Prime Minister John Howard and Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Herron to show leadership and compassion.

"The policy of removing Aboriginal children from their families is a dark part of our history. It is widely accepted that the family losses have affected all generations since, not just one generation. How can we achieve reconciliation when our elected leaders deny that history?

"I hope Mr Howard and Senator Herron read Aboriginal footballer Michael Long's words published today. He speaks clearly and passionately of the pain felt by generations of his family. Michael's story reaches the heart of all of us."

Mr Combet applauded rebel Government backbenchers who defied the party over its stand on mandatory sentencing laws, and warned that the Government would continue to face criticism and condemnation.

"John Howard is losing the confidence of his party members, of voters, and of international observers. This Government has locked itself into a bunker on humanitarian issues. The review of Australia's participation in the UN committee system following criticism of this Government's race policies is a disgrace.

"Australian union members have a long history of supporting Aboriginal people. This Government does not speak or act for us. Mandatory sentencing laws must be overturned, and UN criticism must be acknowledged and acted upon."

For further information

Contact:	ACTU Media Office: Brenda Finlayson
Union:	ACTU
Phone:	0413 507 260
WWW:	http://www.actu.asn.au

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