STATE MUST NOW COMMITT TO FORCED ADOPTIONS APOLOGY

The Tasmanian Greens today called on the Premier to issue an apology on behalf of the State to Tasmanian women, children and families affected by forced adoption policies of the past now that the Federal Government has undertaken to issue a historic apology in line with a Senate Committee recommendation.

Greens Children spokesperson Paul ‘Basil’ O’Halloran MP said the commitment, made by Federal Attorney-General Nicola Roxon MP, that the Federal Government will apologise for forced adoptions now needed to be matched by an apology on behalf of the State.

“Hundreds of people are still suffering the trauma and sadness that these profoundly damaging policies inflicted on Tasmanian mothers, children and families,” said Mr O’Halloran.

“These wrongs can never be undone but an apology is crucial in validating this suffering and by allowing the healing process by acknowledging past wrongs and current hurt.”

“The Greens have long campaigned for an apology and the Senate Community Affairs References Committee’s Report on the Commonwealth Contribution to Former Forced Adoption Policies and Practices recommended an apology by the Federal Government as well as by each state.”

“With historic commitments on marriage equality, banning tobacco advertising and the country’s first Cost of Living strategy, Tasmania is establishing a reputation as a lead state on progressive social reform issues, so it’s a shame we are falling behind on such a fundamental need to right this wrong.”

“The Greens urge Premier Lara Giddings MP to make Tasmania the lead state on this issue as well. Standing up and acknowledging wrongs made in the past is part and parcel of strong leadership.”

“We have repeatedly called for a State commitment to issue this apology, and for the Minister to work with the Greens and the Liberals, as well as stakeholders, to ensure the text of a Parliamentary apology meets their needs.”

“The Federal Government’s commitment to apologise does not absolve the State from its responsibility to apologise, in fact, it impels us to but we are falling behind in doing so,” said Mr O’Halloran.
Paul O’Halloran MP Greens Children’s spokesperson Monday 25 June 2012