Media Release – Manus report fails to dig deep enough and Minister still blaming victims

Manus report fails to dig deep enough and Minister still blaming victims

The government inquiry into the events on Manus Island was limited from the beginning due to its narrow scope. Following the reports release, which includes a detailed account of the death of Reza Barati and the extent of the violence against asylum seekers, the Minister continues to blame asylum seeker victims and refuses to take responsibility.

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is disappointed by the response of Minister for Immigration, Scott Morrison. Public statements made by the Minister show he still determines the behaviour of asylum seekers as the major factor in the violent events that occurred.

“It’s of great of concern that the Minister hasn’t reflected on the policy itself, including the high risk and dangers asylum seekers are exposed to when left to languish offshore in remote locations, in harsh conditions with no attempt to process or resettle fairly and efficiently,” said Pamela Curr, ASRC Detention Rights Advocate.

“Claiming that nothing would have happened had there been no protest reveals just how much blame shifting the government is engaged in. It shows a distinct lack of accountability, which raises serious concerns for preventing similar events in future.

This tragedy did not occur because of protests; it occurred because the policy of offshore processing is a failure. For 18 months there was no system in place to process refugee claims. The recent progress raises serious questions regarding a fair and just assessment process,” said Pamela.

The ASRC believes that even if the recommendations from the report are implemented, significant risks to the safety and well-being of asylum seekers will remain. These events demonstrate that offshore processing is untenable and inhumane.

It is also of great concern that no charges have been laid. Bringing the individuals responsible to justice should be the highest priority and yet the delay is now more than 100 days.

The Australian government cannot guarantee the safety of asylum seekers and it cannot abide by its international obligations. Any improvements to facilities will still see asylum seekers held in prolonged detention in harsh conditions.

Asylum seekers should be brought to Australia for efficient processing in the community.

A copy of the report can be found here: https://www.immi.gov.au/about/dept-info/_files/review-robert-cornall.pdf

Further information or comment:
Pamela Curr, Detention Rights Advocate – 0417 517 075
Serina McDuff, Director of Advocacy  – 0451 411 479