Press Release Wg Launch (1)

Contact Greg Straton Telephone 01-8389664

Mobile 0876984273 Email info@spirasi.ie

Website www.spirasi.ie

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 30, 2015

SPIRASI URGES JUSTICE MINISTER TO IMPLEMENT WORKING GROUP

RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRIORITISE INTERNATIONAL PROTECTION

BILL SPIRASI urges the Justice Minister, Frances Fitzgerald, to implement the recommendations of the

Working Group on the Protection Process.

SPIRASI Executive Director Greg Straton said today:

“There is a moral imperative for the state to implement the recommendations contained

in the report of the working group without delay. It is vital that government gives priority

to the International Protection Bill.”

In October 2014, Minister for Justice, equality and law reform, Frances Fitzgerald announced the

establishment of a working group to examine improvements to the protection process and direct

provision system. Spirasi, represented by its director Greg Straton was one of the members of

the working group.

Spirasi welcomed the chance to participate in the process along with other NGO’s and officials

from various state agencies, including the Department of Justice. The process included

consultations and input from those who are being directly impacted by the international

protection system in Ireland, including victims of torture. The working group arrived at the

recommendations contained in the report through consensus.

The proposals contained in the report are practical and have the potential to offer significant

savings to the taxpayer, improve our current protection procedures and most importantly will go

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a long way to treating vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers with dignity and compassion. The

report, if approved and implemented swiftly, will make a significant difference to the lives of

some of the most vulnerable people in Ireland.

We believe that there is a moral imperative for the state to implement the recommendations

contained in the report of the working group without delay.

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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Greg Straton at 01-8389664 or email

info@spirasi.ie.