Immigration Dept clarifies position

Letter to the Editor - Northern Daily Leader
10 January 2007

Dear Sir/Madam

Your report (Tamworth first to vote against refugee centre, 8/01/07) falsely states a Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs (DIMA) spokesperson said Tamworth 'had no such excuse' for not supporting refugee resettlement.

What the department did say was it consulted closely with all relevant state and local governments to ensure they are supportive of refugee settlement. Community views were also sought, including community groups and the broader public, to ensure that the town can provide a welcoming environment.

Should there be reasons to indicate lack of support for the settlement of refugees in a region, including local government support, the department would not proceed with the proposal.

As your paper has been told previously, should the relevant stakeholders wish to reconsider, DIMA is happy to resume discussions.

Sandi Logan
National Communications Manager
Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs