Green Alliance launches campaign
By Arun Pradhan
ADELAIDE â "We need an alternative to Liberal and Labor, an alternative that is inclusive and based on grassroots democracy, one that puts environmental and social justice first." These comments by candidate Trish Corcoran set the mood of the Green Alliance launch here on November 27.
Corcoran and fellow Green Alliance candidate Col Smith addressed the meeting of 30 people. In discussing the future of the green movement, Corcoran emphasised the need to look beyond polling day. "We don't just aim to get seats in parliament. This alliance allows us to highlight issues and encourage people to get involved in the many groups that make up Green Alliance."
The basic principles of Green Alliance are ecological sustainability, social and economic justice, grassroots democracy, disarmament and non-violence.
Col Smith particularly noted the need for increased funding for public transport and World Heritage listing for the Lake Eyre Basin.
If elected the candidates pledged to behave very differently from our current politicians. Smith explained, "A system of government has to be controlled by the people, not the other way around. We will seek community input and consultation." Both speakers said that over half of their salaries will be fed back into grassroots campaigns.
People interested in finding out more about the policies of Green Alliance or who want to get involved in the campaign can ring 231 6982.