press release wg launch (1)
TRANSCRIPT
Contact Greg Straton Telephone 01-8389664
Mobile 0876984273 Email [email protected]
Website www.spirasi.ie
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 30, 2015
SPIRASI URGES JUSTICE MINISTER TO IMPLEMENT WORKING GROUP
RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRIORITISE INTERNATIONAL PROTECTION
BILL SPIRASI urges the Justice Minister, Frances Fitzgerald, to implement the recommendations of the
Working Group on the Protection Process.
SPIRASI Executive Director Greg Straton said today:
“There is a moral imperative for the state to implement the recommendations contained
in the report of the working group without delay. It is vital that government gives priority
to the International Protection Bill.”
In October 2014, Minister for Justice, equality and law reform, Frances Fitzgerald announced the
establishment of a working group to examine improvements to the protection process and direct
provision system. Spirasi, represented by its director Greg Straton was one of the members of
the working group.
Spirasi welcomed the chance to participate in the process along with other NGO’s and officials
from various state agencies, including the Department of Justice. The process included
consultations and input from those who are being directly impacted by the international
protection system in Ireland, including victims of torture. The working group arrived at the
recommendations contained in the report through consensus.
The proposals contained in the report are practical and have the potential to offer significant
savings to the taxpayer, improve our current protection procedures and most importantly will go
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a long way to treating vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers with dignity and compassion. The
report, if approved and implemented swiftly, will make a significant difference to the lives of
some of the most vulnerable people in Ireland.
We believe that there is a moral imperative for the state to implement the recommendations
contained in the report of the working group without delay.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Greg Straton at 01-8389664 or email