Sunday, May 21, 2006
Afghan protesters removed
Well done to the Gardaí for removing the Afghan hunger strikers from St Patrick's Cathedral last night.According to campaigners, the men did not leave voluntarily but did not resist.
In a statement, the Department of Justice said the situation had ended with the minors being taken into the care of the HSE and the adults into garda custody.
The Minister for Justice, Michael McDowell, has confirmed that no deal was done with the group. He said the Department's position remains what it has been since last Sunday - that the group must seek asylum through the refugee system.
Earlier, the Church of Ireland said it was instructed by the Department of Justice to withdraw from all negotiations involving the asylum seekers.
Last night the department rejected proposals, agreed by church officials with the asylum seekers, aimed at resolving the situation.
The Department of Justice said it could not agree to compromises brokered by the Church of Ireland bishops, as they would almost certainly lead to copycat actions.
The department said it is not possible to enter into agreement involving commitments which go beyond what the protestors are entitled to under the asylum process.
Well done to all involved in the operation. The Department of Justice has done well here.
It would have been unthinkable to allow these guys hold the Irish state to ransom and it would certainly have led to copycat actions.
It's very simple. If you want to come into this country then you respect the laws of this land. These men did not.
For that they should be deported in my opinion.
# posted by United Irelander @ 12:43 AM 
© 2008 United Irelander.
