From where we sit, it seems
that international pro- and anti-nuclear forces are fairly finely
balanced on the see-saw at present. This means that all efforts -
on both sides - can really count.
Recent developments in
renewable energy and the move towards the dismantling of artificial
subsidies of the nuclear industry (including public questioning of
the fact that the industry pays no insurance cover for its accidents
and leaks) mean that renewable energy is moving into a position of
being able to compete economically with nuclear energy.
Almost all public polls
on nuclear issues show that the most people want the nuclear industry
to be phased out as soon as possible. (Where there is not yet a clear
majority, opinion is rapidly moving that way - e.g. in Japan since
the fatal accident in Tokaimura in 1999.)
But the political system
must be harnessed effectively by the public if we are to turn the
tide, as the industry is intensifying its survival efforts by shamelessly
trying to hijack the greenhouse debate. This has failed to impress
the public so far.
Even as the industry is
slowly grinding to a halt around the world, the Beverley uranium mine
has gone into full production in South Australia, and the nearby Honeymoon
site is probably not far behind. In both cases, the processes of environmental
assessment and community consultation were cheerfully abused to lead
to the outcome previously determined by the government and the mining
companies concerned.
If we are to avoid a repeat
of this sham process here in Western Australia, the only option is
pre-emptive legislation banning all uranium exploration and mining.
This gives investors the 'certainty' they are demanding while protecting
the environment and people of this state from future contamination.
The state election gives us an unprecedented opportunity to achieve
this outcome. We have outlined the party positions on three nuclear
issues. Please consider them when casting your vote on February 10,
and help vote the nuclear industry out of Western Australia...once
and for all!
Brenda Conochie
+ Scott Ludlam
