The ICAN Cities Appeal was endorsed by the Shoalhaven City Council on 27 April 2021.
MOTION
Councillor Alison Aldrick said that “As a council, we have to protect all our citizens and we can take stands on things that are so important. Having nuclear weapons in easy use is something we need to take a stand on. If there is something we can do for denuclearization in local government, then let’s go for it” and moved
That Shoalhaven City Council:
1. Joins other Australian councils in endorsing the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons Cities Appeal, which reads: Our city is deeply concerned about the grave threat that nuclear weapons pose to communities throughout the world. We firmly believe that our residents have the right to live in a world free from this threat. Any use of nuclear weapons, whether deliberate or accidental, would have catastrophic, far reaching and long-lasting consequences for people and the environment. In doing so we welcome the entry into force of the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons on 22 January, 2021.
2. Writes to Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon Scott Morrison MP and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, The Hon Marise Payne MP, requesting that the Australian Government sign and ratify the Treaty without delay.
3. Reaffirms its position that the Shoalhaven is a Nuclear Free Zone.
4. Writes to the President of the Australian Local Government Association and Local Government NSW Councillor Linda Scott requesting this matter be added to the next Board Agendas and that the matter be added as an urgent item of business at the National General Assembly
Seconded By Councillor Bob Proudfoot, and CARRIED.
Other councillors speaking to the motion mentioned:
“We are the peoples’ government. When it comes to nuclear weapons we must remind ourselves, it’s the people that run this planet, not the politicians.” Cr Bob Proudfoot.
“Things change, and it needs to start at ground level.” Cr Mitchell Pakes.
“The bombing of Maralinga was a great shame to this nation. It’s something our government needs to address and redress.We are not immune, we participated in the development of nuclear weapons at the expense of Aboriginal people.” Cr Kaye Gartner.
“This is a wonderful motion.” Cr John Levett.
ICAN Australia commends the efforts of Unions Shoalhaven, and local residents Patricia, Kerry, Akira, Jeff and Helen Calidicott for your local campaigning!
