Nuclear Weapons

McCormack acknowledged the motion and the presence of Pacific Islanders, noting the historical context of testing in the Marshall Islands. McCormack cited concerns regarding the stability of the concrete dome at Runit Island, which contains radioactive debris, and questioned why cleanup efforts have not been prioritised. McCormack linked the legacy of testing to current global tensions and noted the explosive force equivalent to dropping a Hiroshima-sized bomb daily for 20 years. McCormack recognised the motion as an important acknowledgment of the anniversary and the enduring effects on the region.

Smith recalled the French testing at Mururoa Atoll in the late 1990s and emphasised the human and cultural toll of nuclear detonations. Smith noted that over 315 devices were detonated between 1946 and 1996, causing forced removals and loss of spiritual connection to ancestral lands. Smith argued that remembering these events is crucial to preventing their recurrence and acknowledged the suffering of those displaced from their homes. Smith highlighted the proximity of 1996 to the present day and the need to maintain collective consciousness of these historical harms.

Haines commended the motion and detailed the displacement of populations and starvation resulting from early tests like Operation Crossroads. Haines described the profound health impacts, including cancer and birth defects, and the contamination of ecosystems and food sources. Haines argued that Australia should strengthen its resolve by joining the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons to assist victims and remediate environments. Haines cited Associate Professor Tilman Ruff's warning against normalising nuclear threats and called for action based on the lessons of history.

Ryan welcomed the delegation and highlighted the evolution of Australia's relationship with Pacific nations from colonial ties to partnerships with sovereign states. Ryan emphasised the importance of practical measures to reduce nuclear risks and strengthen global non-proliferation architecture. Ryan affirmed the Australian Labor Party's longstanding support for the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons as the cornerstone of disarmament efforts. Ryan stated that the government stands with Pacific nations to ensure nuclear weapons are never used again.