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Monday, 13 February 2012
Page: 978

Iraq

Debate resumed on the motion by Mr Hayes:

That this House:

(1) recognises:

(a) the extensive historical connection and contribution of the Mandaean religion and that of other indigenous people, to the country of Iraq and humanity overall;

(b) the ongoing plight since 2003 associated with a systematic loss of culture, heritage and language of the Sabian Mandaean and various Christian minorities in Iraq; and

(c) that Australia was part of the 'coalition of the willing' that prosecuted the war on Iraq in 2003, and due to this involvement, Australia, along with its coalition partners, has a moral responsibility to compassionately support and protect the indigenous minorities of Iraq from ongoing persecution;

(2) condemns the horrendous acts of violence and persecution against the Sabian Mandaeans and other religious minorities in Iraq; and

(3) encourages the preservation and continued prosperity of the heritage, culture and language of the Sabian Mandaean and other indigenous people of Iraq.