Another group of Sri Lankans sent home
Thursday, 06 December 2012
More than 600 Sri Lankans have been returned to Sri Lanka involuntarily since 13 August, as another group was removed to Colombo today.
Today's group was made up 46 Sri Lankan men and all were recent arrivals from a number of different boats.
The government will continue to return people where they do not engage Australia's international obligations.
We are committed to breaking the evil people smuggling trade, prevent people from taking dangerous boats and save lives at sea.
People who pay smugglers are risking their lives and throwing their money away. There is no visa on arrival, there is no speedy outcome, and there is no special treatment.
These Sri Lankan men were advised of their status and that they were subject to removal from Australia. They raised no issues that engaged Australia's international obligations.
Without a valid visa they had no legal right to remain in Australia and were removed at the earliest opportunity.
We will continue to return people to Sri Lanka. We will continue to transfer people to Nauru and Manus Island.
Since 13 August, almost 750 Sri Lankans have returned home – 640 involuntarily – as people realise that smugglers only sell lies and false promises about what awaits people in Australia.
People returned involuntarily do not have access to reintegration assistance.
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/cb/2012/cb192237.htm
Last update: Thursday, 06 December 2012 at 15:39 AEST