29 Jun 2002

Asylum seeker processing on Manus Island almost complete

9:29 am on 29 June 2002

The refugee status of just one asylum-seeker on Manus Island in Papua New Guinea remains unresolved after decisions were announced yesterday in a further 32 cases

19 Iraqis and another person were found to be refugees while the other 12 people were not.

Decisions have now been made in 336 of the cases on Manus Island, with a total of 91 refused refugee status and 245 approved.

A spokesman for the Department of Immigration says those found to be refugees will continue to receive support including accommodation, food, clothing and medical care while resettlement opportunities are sought for them.

Those found not to be refugees are expected to leave the country as soon as circumstances permit.