MEDIA RELEASE                                      
14 November 2016

Global nuke dump – A Dead Plan Walking

Conservation SA, the state’s peak environment body, has reacted with dismay at today’s announcement by the Premier that he intends to continue his nuclear waste dump push in the face of mounting opposition with a referendum.

“This is a Dead Plan Walking,” said Craig Wilkins, Conservation SA’s Chief Executive. 

“With so much opposition across the community and across Parliament this plan is going nowhere.

“This will fall over through a lack of support in Parliament for a referendum, or a failed state-wide vote. Either way it is doomed.

 “Community opposition will only grow. We intend to fight it all the way.  Because, ultimately, we know there is a better way for SA.

 “Nothing divides communities like nuclear. Rather than showing respect for Aboriginal communities and their clear and consistent opposition, the Premier is doing exactly what his Citizen Jury said he shouldn’t: ignore the views of Aboriginal people.

“Every day we spend needlessly debating the option to turn ourselves into the world’s rubbish tip is one less day we have to crack on with creating jobs and turning our state around,” he said.

For the same-sex marriage plebiscite, the Federal Government agreed to provide equal financial support to both sides of the debate.

“If the Premier is genuine about his support for democracy through this referendum, he will guarantee equal financial support for those who are for and against this proposal.

“We are proud citizens of a proud state.  A referendum will fail because we citizens know we can do so much better than become the world’s toxic dump site,’ he said.

Further Comment: Craig Wilkins 0417 879 439