Don't stifle debate on child abuse: MP

NSW Aboriginal Affairs Minister Milton Orkopoulos yesterday launched a stinging attack on politicians, bureaucrats and academics who were trying to stifle a debate on physical and sexual violence in Aboriginal communities. "Federal, state and territory governments have two imperatives - protecting children and bringing perpetrators to justice," he said. "We simply cannot ignore the cries for help. Arguments for not acting are absolutely unacceptable. "The arguments about cultural sensitivity don't wash with anyone. "We are talking about crimes against young children, and protecting them is a prime purpose of government. "We cannot have two different standards for sexual abuse of children. Rape is rape and sexual abuse is sexual abuse whether it is in the white community or the black community." Mr Orkopoulos said he was ready to support any national action proposed by Federal Indigenous Affairs Minister Mal Brough, saying: "This issue is too serious to be subject to party politics, or personal prejudices masquerading as public policy." Mr Orkopoulos, MP for Swansea, said he would hold meetings with NSW Aboriginal leaders this week to discuss their views on dysfunctional Aboriginal communities.

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