11/03/02
Detention of Refugees

The Human Rights Commission has been closely following the human rights aspects of the plight of people seeking refugee status in New Zealand, including the issue of detention of refugees.

Chief Human Rights Commissioner Rosslyn Noonan today said that the Commission welcomes the initiative of the Human Rights Foundation and the Refugee Council to seek a judicial ruling on the legality of routine detention of people seeking refugee status.

“This is a responsible initiative in this difficult and sensitive field. Important issues are involved, and it is timely that they are examined by the Court.”