Sri Lankan Boat Arrivals Returned

Sri Lankan Boat Arrivals Returned

More than two thirds of a group of 50 Sri Lankans who arrived by boat In April have now been returned to Sri Lanka after they were determined not be refugees.

A group of six men who had been involved in protest action while in detention were removed from Christmas Island on Saturday and arrived safely in Colombo that night.

They join 30 others from the same boat who returned to Sri Lanka voluntarily after their claims for protection were thoroughly assessed and it was found they had not raised any issues which might engage Australia's obligations under the United Nations Refugees' Convention.

Twelve others have been granted protection visas and settled on the mainland while two are in the final stages of their processing on Christmas Island.

The 50 men were from a boat which was intercepted by Australia's Border Protection Command 65 nautical miles north-east of Thursday Island on April 2.

The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, said the Rudd Government's position on asylum seekers is clear.

"People who are owed Australia's protection under our international obligations will be granted that protection," Senator Evans said.

"All irregular maritime arrivals found not to be owed protection and with no other basis to remain in Australia will be removed."

The handling of the group demonstrates the Australian Government's commitment to dealing with irregular maritime arrivals in a timely and effective manner.

"Irregular maritime arrivals are initially interviewed to assess, among other things, their reasons for travel to Australia," Senator Evans said.

"Someone who is seeking better economic opportunities does not meet the criteria for a protection visa."

So far this year, 119 people who arrived by boat have been returned home.

Media Contact: Simon Dowding (02) 6277 7860 or 0411 138 541

Senator Chris Evans
Leader of the Government in the Senate Minister for Immigration and Citizenship

SOURCE: Minister for Immigration and Citizenship