Australian Democrats firm on mobile phone health.

The Queensland division of the Australian Democrats met on 31 August 1996 and passed a unanimous motion that states:

"The Australian Democrats strongly oppose the construction of telecommunications towers in areas where children gather for long periods.

1.) The Queensland Division of the Australian Democrats call for a moratorium on sitings of telecommunications towers on or near school grounds, day care centres and kindergartens.

2.) The Queensland Division of the Australian Democrats will implement a strong 'on the ground' research program designed to gauge community awareness of, and health effects on, the public.

3.) The Queensland Division of the Australian Democrats encourages the common sense policy of telecommunications carriers sharing their facilities rather than the current duplication of infrastructure. This simple action will reduce dramatically the number and proliferation of telecommunication towers within the community.

A 'potential public health risk' information kit from Democrats' Leader and Queensland Senator Cheryl Kernot was issued to child welfare groups and every local government body in Queensland.

Australian Democrats State Environment spokesperson, Hetty Johnston said: "This kit contains the latest information and scientific opinion on the potential hazards associated with electromagnetic radiation, such as those emitted by mobile phone towers. Ignorance must not be an excuse for government inaction on this potential threat."

Ms Johnston noted that in May this year, the President of the AMA (Australian Medical Association) David Weedon, expressed similar concerns in a letter stating: "In my view the "jury is still out" on the health effects of electromagnetic radiation with the strong likelihood that there is a slight risk of leukaemia."

Ms. Johnston said that all technology carries with it some element of risk to the community. However, a genuine risk-benefit analysis must accompany any decision to introduce, endorse or expand technology.

Consideration of the potential risk to public health must be paramount in the decision-making process. Past experiences such as the asbestos and thalidomide tragedies should not be forgotten," Ms Johnston warned.

(from press release of 2 Sept. 1996)