Antinuclear

Conflict over idea for servicing nuclear subs In My Community, 16/Mar/2012 By Laura Tomlinson, Weekend Courier BRAND MHR Gary Gray has defended the Defence Force posture review’s recommendation to look into the possibility of servicing US nuclear submarines at Garden Island, reiterating that “no decisions have been made”.

Greens Senator Scott Ludlam said the Australian Defence Force posture review – an inquiry into Australian defence bases – was off-target with the suggestion that US nuclear submarines should be serviced at Garden Island. “The risks of routinely floating nuclear reactors in and out of Cockburn Sound shouldn’t be underestimated,” he said. “WA police and emergency services personnel are completely under-resourced to cope with even a minor reactor leak.”

Senator Ludlum said offering infrastructure to nuclear submarines from other countries would damage Australia’s standing due to worldwide efforts towards nuclear disarmament…..

Mr Gray said “The recommendations refer to providing facilities for US nuclear-powered submarines and other vessels.
“Preliminary recommendations of the Australian Defence Force posture review are for Defence to develop options to provide improved facilities for US Navy nuclear-powered submarines.

The review’s final report will be submitted to the Government at the end of this month. The Defence white paper is due to be released in the first quarter of 2014.   http://www.inmycommunity.com.au/news-and-views/local-news/Conflict-over-idea-for/7616382/