16th April 2005 - Call for Humanitarian Treatment of Children of Asylum Seekers
Call for Humanitarian Treatment of children of Asylum Seekers
IPPN calls upon the Irish Government, and in particular, the Department of Justice, to deal with the applications by immigrant families seeking leave to remain in Ireland on humanitarian grounds, in a common sense, respectful and decent manner.
IPPN also calls on the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to immediately desist from the practice of deporting parents without their children. It is contrary to our traditions and values to deliberately act in a manner which has the direct consequence of breaking up the family unit. EU Directive on Refugee Status, article 23, maintains that the best interest of the child and the maintenance of family unity should be a primary consideration of member states
In addition, IPPN requests that Minister McDowell immediately exercises his power to give leave to remain in Ireland, families whose children have been attending school here for years and who are integrated successfully into the school and wider community.
