MANUS REFUGEES PAWNS FOR TOO LONG

WHEN will the madness on Manus Island end? No food, clean water, lights, medical aid or security.

Although formally recognised as refugees and legally owed protection, most of these men have already suffered unlawful and degrading detention for over four years.

Peter Dutton, Minister for Immigration, has given them three hopeless options: stay in the detention centre and starve; return to a “wellfounded fear of persecution” in their homeland; or move to an unfinished and unguarded transit centre against the wishes of local people and authorities.

The Australian Government has abandoned these men, telling PNG that it is now their responsibility to find a safe place for them. This is a blatant abrogation of Australia’s moral and legal obligations and duty of care.

New Zealand’s offer to settle a number of refugees should be graciously accepted while the remaining men should immediately be moved to Australia until a truly safe third country option is available for them or be allowed to pursue dignified and productive lives here. They have been political pawns for far too long. Anne Egan, Carlisle River