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Doctors, Public Health Agency, oppose Australian government nuclear waste dump plan

Leading health organisations including MAPW and the Public Health Association have signed a statement calling for a comprehensive inquiry into the production of radioisotopes (including non-nuclear-reactor sources) and the disposal of nuclear medicine, before any action is taken to advance any national radioactive waste dump.

The Medical Association for Prevention of War (Australia) has called on the government to withdraw the National Radioactive Waste Management Bill , 13 May 11,  If passed the legislation would see Muckaty, 120km north of Tennant Creek, as the only site initially assessed for a radioactive waste dump.

Leading health organisations including MAPW and the Public Health Association have signed a statement calling for a comprehensive inquiry into the production of radioisotopes (including non-nuclear-reactor sources) and the disposal of nuclear medicine, before any action is taken to advance any national radioactive waste dump.

”The government has continually misled the public by stating that a nuclear industry is necessary to provide treatment to people with cancer”, said Dr Hilary Tyler, an Emergency Physician from the Northern Territory. “As medical professionals we strongly reject this.”

“There is neither good science, nor community consent for a national radioactive waste dump at Muckaty.”

Dr Peter Karamoskos, MAPW Executive Member and a nuclear radiologist added, “We need an inquiry to establish how Australia can manage existing nuclear waste in the safest and most responsible and accountable way. ”

The Medical Association for the Prevention of War is a Nobel Peace Prize winning organisation which works for the elimination of all weapons of mass destruction and the prevention of armed conflict, promoting peace through research, advocacy, peace education and partnerships.

May 13, 2011 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | AUSTRALIA, health