Unauthorised journalist entry to Nauru

The Age - 4 July 2002.
Also sent to The Sunday Herald Sun and The Sunday Times.

Dear Editor,

Your article of 30 June reporting the visit by Kate Durham and Sarah Macdonald to the IOM run processing centres on Nauru makes a number of claims that need to be corrected.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) administers the asylum seeker processing facility in the Republic of Nauru on the basis of requests by the Governments of Nauru and Australia.

IOM maintains high health standards for asylum seekers. The ratio of doctors to asylum seekers is 1:230 (compared with 1:800 in the general population in Australia). IOM medical staff includes 5 international doctors, 1 senior mental health psychiatrist, 1 psychologist, 4 clinical nurses, 1 public health coordinator and 3 medical interpreters.

Sickness is not widespread and in fact the level of treatment available to asylum seekers is very likely better than that available in many parts of the world. Not only is there the daily clinic, but the doctors are available after hours. The doctors have a comprehensive supply of medicines and drugs, which are dispensed as needed. The centres conduct ongoing public health programs as well as a program devoted to women's and children's health. Baby health clinics are also conducted as part of this program.

IOM have advised that their doctors have no knowledge of eye infections other than a few children who have been treated for conjunctivitis. There has only been one person with a skin condition involving blemishes to the face for which an Australian dermatologist was consulted and treatment is continuing.

There have been no shortages of drinking water for the asylum seekers in Nauru. There have at times been water shortages that have affected some ablution facilities for a short time.

Bedding is provided to all asylum seekers with new mattresses and sheets purchased and sourced from Australia. The asylum seekers have been given the responsibility for maintaining their own bedding, including washing sheets and making their beds. Having such responsibilities is important in managing life within the centre.

All food for the Nauru processing centres is sourced from Australia. Halal food is provided and fresh fruit and vegetables are regularly supplied to centre residents.

A wide range of amenities for residents has been provided. Playgrounds have been constructed and toys have been purchased for children. Communal televisions, VCRs and music systems are provided as is sporting equipment. Volleyball games are played between the asylum seekers and IOM or local Nauru teams. Cultural exchanges (including dance performances) have been organised and a woman's centre has been established at the main centre. All children between 7 and 15 years attend local Nauru schools. Outings are organised from the centre for the adults.

There have also been claims by Ms Durham that she was arrested while in Nauru. We have confirmed that she was at no stage arrested or taken into custody. The only restriction placed on her was being prevented from unauthorised access to the centres.

It is a pity that reporting has not been more balanced.

Stewart Foster
Director, Public Affairs
Dept of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs