PM Transcripts

PRIME MINISTER
FOR MEDIA 18 APRIL 1991
JOINT STATEMENT WITH THE MINISTER FOR
ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS, ROBERT TICKNER
The Government has given further consideration to its
historic initiative to address the process of reconciliation
between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the
wider community.
We have been heartened by the response to our previous
announcement in December and the discussion paper that was
issued. The Minister has spoken to or been in contact with
leaders of political parties at the Federal and State
levels, Aboriginal leaders and organisations, the churches,
business, trade union, and community organisations.
It is evident that many people have read the discussion
paper, and are coming forward to express their support.
On the basis of assurances of support for the general thrust
of the initiative from political parties, Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander leaders and community organisations,
such as the major churches, we are to proceed forthwith in
drafting legislation to establish the Council for Aboriginal
Reconciliation. The Council, when established, will be responsible for
setting the broader approach to the reconciliation process
and its eventual outcome. The Council members, both
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, will have a significant role
to play in developing and overseeing the awareness and
education campaign which will be the cornerstone of the
reconciliation process.
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