SYDNEY: In the lead up to the 2010 Federal Election, the Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC Australia) has presented the dual issues of Armenian Genocide recognition and sustainability of Galstaun College to Opposition Leader, the Hon. Tony Abbott MP and Shadow Minister for Seniors, the Hon. Bronwyn Bishop MP.
After liaising with the respective Members' offices, ANC Australia was reassured that both were committed to continuing their cooperation on matters concerning Armenian-Australians.
Abbott, who has held the Armenian-Australian populated Electorate of Warringah since 1994, met with ANC Australia on 3 occasions since his re-election in 2007.
This year, Abbott provided a message on occasion of the 95th Anniversary Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, which was read by fellow MP Paul Fletcher, and which unambiguously described the events of 1915 as the Armenian Genocide.
Bishop, whose Federal Electorate of Mackellar is home to Galstaun College, has been extremely supportive of the Armenian-Australians residing in her electorate and of the issues that remain important to them.
Having spoken strongly in support of Armenian Genocide recognition at commemorative events, Bishop also has continually provided representation for applications made by Galstaun College to the Federal government.
ANC Australia Executive Director Varant Meguerditchian said: "The two Northern Beaches MPs have a working relationship with ANC Australia and have been consistent in their support for Armenian-Australian matters of concern."
