Another Sri Lankan group sent home
Thursday, 13 December 2012
A group of 42 Sri Lankan men has been returned to Colombo today, taking to 682 the number of Sri Lankans removed involuntarily since August 13.
The 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. All were recent arrivals from different boats.
Without a valid visa they had no legal right to remain in Australia and were removed at the earliest opportunity.
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.
Since August 13, more than 800 Sri Lankans have returned home – both voluntarily and involuntarily – as people realise that smugglers only sell lies and false promises about what awaits people in Australia.
We will continue to return people to Sri Lanka. We will continue to transfer people to Nauru, and to Manus Island.
People returned involuntarily do not have access to reintegration assistance.
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/cb/2012/cb192419.htm
Last update: Thursday, 13 December 2012 at 14:12 AEST