CASEY residents will have a say on any Commonwealth plans to build a nuclear power station in the city.
Legislation was introduced into State Parliament on Tuesday to make sure a vote was taken if the Federal Government tried to override state laws in regards to the establishment of a nuclear facility in Victoria.
The nuclear debate has been a hot topic for Casey residents since last July when a research centre reported that Western Port was an ideal site for a nuclear power plant.
It was further enriched when Casey councillor Rob Wilson moved a motion at last week’s council meeting requesting a report be prepared looking at both the positive and negative effects of a nuclear power station or nuclear waste storage facility in Casey.
Cr Wilson said the council needed to be pro-active and not reactive when dealing with the issue of nuclear energy.
The motion was carried despite councillor Mick Morland slamming the idea as a total waste of the council’s time and money.
Premier Steve Bracks has attempted to reassure all Victorians regarding the nuclear issue.
“My Government will continue to oppose nuclear power in Victoria and support safer forms of energy such as clean coal, gas, wind and solar,” Mr Bracks said.
“We believe the people of Victoria should have a say on any possible Federal Government plans to build a nuclear power plant in their state.
“If the Commonwealth Government tries to override Victoria’s nuclear free laws – then the voice of all Victorian will be heard,” he said.