Shocking failure to protect Walli Ullah Safi highlights problem of immigration related detention
The recent events surrounding the detention of 21 year-old Walli Ullah Safi highlight the significant problem of immigration related detention in Ireland.
Although not much is known to the public about the details of Mr. Safi’s case, Nasc are deeply concerned that he does not appear to have been offered an immediate opportunity for early legal advice about claiming asylum or even an appropriate interpreter.
Instead, he was arrested for not having identification and remanded in Cloverhill Prison, where he subsequently became a victim of a violent attack by prison inmates in the midst of a protest.
Nasc calls for an immediate independent investigation of this case by the Inspector of Prisons.
“Clearly this case highlights that prison is not the appropriate place for migrants. In particular, vulnerable migrants such as asylum seekers need support and specialised legal advice, not a prison cell,” states Nasc Senior Legal Officer Claire Cumiskey.
“We have profound concerns about how people entering this country are potentially being prevented access to their right to international protection through the process of immigration related detention.”
With the support of St. Stephen’s Green Trust, Nasc is currently engaged in a research project on immigration related detention and refusal of leave to land to people entering the state.
Several international human rights bodies, including the Human Rights Council, the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and the Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, have reprimanded Ireland in recent years over the practice of immigration related detention and the failure to provide separate facilities.
Ms. Cumiskey, who is leading Nasc’s research project, notes, “The research includes interviews with people who have been detained in Cloverhill Prison for immigration related reasons, including being refused leave to enter the State.”
“Nasc are concerned that there may be people being removed from the State who have not been given adequate opportunity to claim international protection in Ireland. This is a fundamental human right.”
“The tragic case of Mr. Safi emphasises that people entering Ireland through whatever means they can deserve a chance to claim our protection. Applying for asylum is not a crime and should not be treated like one.”
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