CLOSURE OF MANUS ISLAND REGIONAL PROCESSING CENTRE

Manus Island and Nauru were set up as regional transit processing facilities but have become places of indefinite detention because of Malcolm Turnbull and Peter Dutton’s failure to negotiate other third country resettlement options.

 

Peter Dutton’s failure to answer basic questions about arrangements in PNG after the closure of the Regional Processing Centre has fuelled refugees' uncertainty about moving to new accommodation.

 

The Turnbull Government has known about the closure of Manus Island RPC for more than six months but has been unclear and unwilling to explain how refugees will continue to have their basic human needs met – including access to security, health and welfare services.

 

It is incumbent on Turnbull Government to do what they can to de-escalate tensions on Manus Island and work with PNG authorities to ensure the safety of refugees, staff and locals.

                                                                                                                

Transferring refugees from one centre to another is not a long term solution; these people urgently need viable third country resettlement options.

 

Peter Dutton must make clear what the Turnbull Government’s plans are for eligible refugees who are not resettled as part of Australia’s agreement with the United States and immediately secure other third country resettlement options.