Media Release.
Statement
from Shadow Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
Curtis Pitt:
Alcohol is,
without doubt, the single most damaging thing introduced to Indigenous
communities. Alcohol Management Plans (AMPs) were an important response by the
former Labor Government to address alcohol misuse and today’s decision allows
them to continue to play an integral role at this time.
The provision
of a safe environment for all members of the discrete communities – especially
women, children and the elderly – must continue to be number one consideration
going forward.
The current
Minister overseeing AMPs Glen Elmes has said publicly that the plans have been
effective in reducing crime and boosting school attendance, which directly
repudiates Campbell Newman’s politically-motivated comments to the contrary.
The
suggestion by the Premier that ‘[AMPs] had not worked to reduce alcohol-related
violence’ is rubbish.
I condemn
anyone using this issue to play politics in any way – it is too important and
the government needs to tread carefully on this potentially emotive and divisive
issue.
The State
Opposition has pledged to be an active participant into the review of AMPs and
we understand the importance of empowering local communities, to provide them
with community ownership of any potential solution.
However we
don’t believe that the State Government should completely abrogate its
responsibility to manage the availability and responsible consumption of alcohol
in Indigenous communities.
As a baseline
policy position, the LNP should not endorse any plans that will increase the
flow of alcohol into Indigenous communities without the focus remaining on the
wellbeing of vulnerable community members, including women and
children.
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