The Australian Greens have condemned the Turnbull Government for secretly implementing yet another cruel policy against asylum seekers.
“The Immigration Minister has far too much power, and this week he has been able to secretly exercise that power in the most inhumane, cruel and heartless way against people who are fleeing persecution,” said Greens Leader, Dr Richard Di Natale.
“Australia is better than this. Australians won’t accept a Minister who wants to kick people while they are down, who wants to inflict more trauma and suffering on people who are already doing it so tough.
“These are people who want to contribute to the community and, like we do for all Australians, it is absolutely the role of the Government to provide a little bit of support when they need it.
“What will it take for Bill Shorten and the Labor Party to take a stand and say enough is enough? It’s up to Mr Shorten to take a strong stand against the Government’s cruelty,” concluded Dr Di Natale.
Greens spokesperson for Immigration, Senator Nick McKim added, “The Greens are taking advice as to how we can reverse the Minister’s decision in the Senate.
“If this is a disallowable instrument, then reversing it will hinge on the Labor party – who have to decide whether they will accept abject cruelty as a policy position.
“Clearly, this government cannot be trusted with people’s lives – which is why we need to have more oversight of these Ministerial powers, not less.
“We will work with the community to fight the Minister’s heartless use of his powers. This is a despicable and monstrous decision that all decent Australians will condemn.”
Senator Richard Di Natale, Australian Greens Leader, Senator Nick McKim, Australian Greens Immigration spokesperson
