Fed: The full text of Opposition Leader Simon Crean's message

AAP General News (Australia)
12-23-2001
Fed: The full text of Opposition Leader Simon Crean's message

CANBERRA, Dec 23 AAP - The full text of Opposition Leader Simon Crean's Christmas message.



I wish all Australians a happy, prosperous and safe Christmas, and a brighter, more
hopeful and rewarding 2002.

Christmas is a time for reflection. It's a time when people show friendship, compassion
and tolerance.

It seems in our society that this has been lacking in the last few months and I hope
that the Christmas period gives time for people to reflect and approach things in a new
way in the New Year.

Because Christmas is a time for healing. It is a time when families, friends, and loved
ones come together and make amends for the things that have kept them apart.

This Christmas I would like to see the nation as a whole take the same approach, and
begin healing the divisions that have been caused across this nation in recent times.

In doing so, let us remember all those who do not share fully in the great wealth of
this nation, or who are unable to share in the joy of Christmas this year because they
are mourning the loss of a loved one, because they are lonely or because they live in
fear.

After a year that has confronted us with extraordinary scenes of horror, let us all
hope 2001 is a year when peace again triumphs over war, love over hate and tolerance and
compassion again become the hallmarks of this nation.

AAP kmh/jmd/de

KEYWORD: XMAS CREAN TEXT

2001 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.