Dr Wayne Mapp

National Immigration Spokesperson

17 March 2004

If in doubt, kick them out

The Immigration Minister must explain why the residency visas of the three people identified as security risks have not been revoked, says National's Immigration Spokesperson, Dr Wayne Mapp.

Richard Woods, Director of the Security Intelligence Service, revealed yesterday that of the 26,000 citizenship applicants, three had been declined due to security concerns, but they remain in the country.

The main concern of the SIS is that New Zealand will serve as a 'safe haven', harbouring international terrorists.

"Any threat to our security or the security of our neighbours is simply unacceptable," says Dr Mapp.

"To say that we avoid 'safe haven' status simply by denying citizenship to potential terrorists is absurd when the same people have permanent residency.

"The role of the Immigration Service and the SIS is to screen potential migrants and visitors to this country and to prevent the entry of anyone posing any risk. If we let people stay who pose a security risk, not only do we put our own population at risk, but we have provided 'safe haven' status that puts other countries at risk.

"Mr Woods has used his powers sparingly and carefully. The Minister of Immigration must take the Director's view on board. If these people should not have citizenship, they should not have residency," says Dr Mapp.

Ends

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