Aboriginal people taking part in NAIDOC celebrations in New South Wales this week have been neglected by the Iemma Government, said Greens Upper House MP Ian Cohen.
“The theme for this year’s events, Respect the Past – Believe in the Future, is an opportunity for the Iemma Government to make constructive contributions to the indigenous people of NSW,” Mr Cohen said.
“The NSW Government could show respect for the past by repaying $65 million owed to Aboriginal families for wages stolen from them over many decades.
“Many of the more elderly claimants could die before they see their hard-earned money and entitlements that the state as trustee was supposed to safeguard.
“Leaked documents show close to $80 million could be owed to workers and their families. The $15 million announced by the Government in 2004 does not go far enough.
“The Government is also delaying NSW Aboriginal Land Council elections for political convenience. The elections should be held as soon as possible, rather than in May as announced by the Minister Milton Orkopoulos.
“The NSW Government is holding up the elections until May next year so they will avoid any potential political heat in the lead up to next year’s state election.
“The way it stands, Aboriginal people of NSW will have no representative voice in the lead up to the March poll.
“The Iemma Government must demonstrate that it believes in the future of Aboriginal people in NSW and set the Land Council elections for November this year.”
Further Information: Claire O’Rourke 9230 3305 or 0409 810 139
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