Nauru Offshore Processing Centre
Letter to the Editor - The Age
29 March 2004
Dear Sir/Madam
On a topic supposedly cloaked in secrecy, Robert Manne presents extraordinary detail about the Nauru Offshore Processing Centre (Postcards from Hell, 27/3/04).
The voluminous correspondence from centre residents cited in the article is ample evidence that, contrary to assertions, they are free to write to and speak with whomever they want.
The only thing missing was the facts.
Contrary to Mr Manne's claims, residents live comfortably in air-conditioned accommodation, eat well and have access to fresh drinking water at all times.
The best health care - including specialist treatment in Australia - is provided. A team of doctors and nurses care for residents at the centre and Nauru hospital facilities are available when required.
A comprehensive mental health program is in place that addresses individual needs and promotes and creates a positive social environment.
Observations by Dr Maarten Dormaar, who was in Nauru for three months around two years ago, were taken seriously and in many instances acted upon.
During the hunger strike in the Nauru centre last December, staff from the International Organisation for Migration closely monitored the health and welfare of residents involved in the action.
From the outset, the Australian Government made it clear to the protesters that it did not make decisions about refugee assessments under duress of any kind.
With a few exceptions where people are awaiting resettlement, all the centre residents are failed asylum seekers. Where fresh information on country conditions becomes available from the UNHCR, the Government may decide to review cases.
It is doing this right now with Afghans in the centre.
Stewart Foster
Director, Public Affairs
DIMIA