Fed: Clark appeals to Senate to overturn suspension

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Fed: Clark appeals to Senate to overturn suspension

Aboriginal leader GEOFF CLARK has appealed to Labor and the minor parties in the Senateto overturn his suspension as ATSIC chairman, which he's condemned as outrageous.

Mr CLARK says he has no means of fighting the government's decision in court becauseother legal cases have left him financially ruined.

Indigenous Affairs Minister PHILIP RUDDOCK suspended Mr CLARK yesterday on full payover convictions in March that followed a pub brawl in Warrnambool in Victoria.

Mr RUDDOCK says he won't sack Mr CLARK until his appeal against his conviction forobstructing police and riotous behaviour is determined by the Victorian County Court.

But in his first public comment on his suspension, Mr CLARK's lashed out at the federalgovernment, saying it's made him a scapegoat and should not be interfering in the interestsof Aboriginal people.

And he's appealed to Labor and the minor parties in the Senate to block the suspension,which can be challenged by parliament.

Labor has supported Mr RUDDOCK's decision to suspend Mr CLARK, but has asked why thegovernment didn't act when Mr CLARK was convicted.

AAP RTV km/rp/rt/rp

KEYWORD: ATSIC CLARK (DARWIN)