Tuesday, June 15, 2004

Labor to request Senate inquiry into ATSIC's future

The Federal Opposition has announced it will call for a Senate inquiry into the Government's plan to abolish the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC).

Labor also has plans to remove the organisation.

Around 250 people, including ATSIC commissioners from around the country, have protested outside Parliament House against the Federal Government's plans to abolish ATSIC.

They have accused the Government of trying to silence the voice of Indigenous Australians.

Labor's Indigenous Affairs spokesperson Kerry O'Brien has told the crowd the Opposition will call for a Senate inquiry into the Government's plans for the future of ATSIC.

The Democrats and the Greens have both indicated they will support the move.

By Sorry? 15 June 04

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