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Chairperson welcomes proposal for reconciliation square Chairperson Evelyn Scott today welcomed the Prime Minister�s announcement that the Government would support the construction of a reconciliation square in Canberra, and that it would consult with the Council and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives about the proposal. "I welcome this proposal in the spirit in which it is put forward, and I believe that a reconciliation square would be a fitting national symbol of the Australian people�s commitment to reconciliation," Ms Scott said. "I look forward to taking part in consultations to ensure that the proposed square truly reflects both our aspirations for reconciliation and our practical commitments to make it a reality." Ms Scott said that she agreed with the Prime Minister�s stated aim that a reconciliation square would represent the first truly integrated national symbol recognising Indigenous people and our desire as a nation to share a harmonious future. "I also agree that siting it in the parliamentary zone would place the reconciliation process physically and symbolically at the heart of Australia�s democratic life and institutions," she said. "I especially welcome the Prime Minister�s commitment to consult about this proposal with the Ngunnawal people, the traditional owners of the parliamentary zone, and with Council, the ATSIC Chairman, Mr Geoff Clark, and the Chairman of the Torres Strait Regional Authority, Mr Terry Waia," Ms Scott said. "The spirit of reconciliation requires wide consultations with representatives of both Indigenous peoples and the wider community to make sure we get this one right," she said. "And when it happens, it must reflect the real state of the nation � a commitment to practical actions by all sections of our diverse society to make reconciliation a living reality. As with all good symbols and memorials, it must speak to the truth of our nation�s heart and soul," Ms Scott said. CANBERRA 22 MAY 2000
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