FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                             DATE 08/03/10

 

The discovery of another abandoned baby in Brisbane on Friday again highlighted the critical urgency for debate on Baby Safe Haven legislation in Australia.

 

“The saddest part about this latest abandonment is that a tiny body was found, rather than a living, breathing baby.” Senator Polley lamented. “I say again and again that if a national network of Baby Safe Havens had been in place this tragedy may well have been avoided.”

 

Senator Polley has called continually for the introduction of legislation that would establish Baby Safe Havens across the country over the last 18 months. These havens would make use of existing facilities, such as police stations and hospitals, and would offer scared and confused mothers an alternative to disposing of newborns in dangerous and exposed places.

 

“In the time that I have continued to speak on this issue, continued to write to State Governments, and continued to gather public support for this idea, at least 6 more babies have been abandoned in this country that we know of. Most do not survive. This is a tragedy and one that we must do all within our power to rectify.” Senator Polley concluded.

 

Senator Polley continues to gather signatures for a nation-wide petition calling for the introduction of Baby Safe Haven legislation.