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Australia returns Lanka migrants
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Australian officials say more than thirty-five Sri Lankans, who arrived by boat earlier this year, have been returned to Sri
Lanka after their asylum applications were turned down.
The boat carrying fifty Sri Lankans was intercepted by a border patrol unit near the Christmas island in April this year. The Australian minister for immigration and citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, said only those who require Australia's protection under its international obligations will be permitted to stay in the country. "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". Australia says nearly one-hundred-and-twenty people who arrived by boat have been returned home so far this year. The growing number of asylum seekers is becoming a political issue in Australia, with the government facing criticism for softening the immigration laws since it took office in 2007. |
LOCAL LINKS
 Afghan migrants held in IndonesiaSandeshaya
Tamil asylum seekers leave shipSandeshaya
Eight migrants 'ready' to disembark10 November, 2009 | Sandeshaya
Australia urges Lanka political reforms08 November, 2009 | Sandeshaya
Migrants seek UN intervention27 October, 2009 | Sandeshaya
EXTERNAL LINKS
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