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FIELDING TO INSPECT DETENTION CENTRE ON CHRISTMAS ISLAND

Press Releases January 27 2010

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Family First Leader Senator Steve Fielding will inspect the Christmas Island detention centre over the next two days as boat loads more of asylum seekers try to make it to Australia.

“I don’t know if the detention centre on the island is like palace or not. All I know is the boats keep on coming,” Senator Fielding said.

“It’s important for an independent to take a look at what’s happening on Christmas Island because asylum seekers have become a political football in recent years.

“I think Australians are fed up with the government telling us one thing but the complete opposite being reported in the media.

“I want to find out once and for all what is happening on the island and then work a way forward with the government.

“This isn’t an easy issue because on one hand it’s important we protect our borders but it’s also crucial we meet our international obligations.

“I want to work with the Immigration Minister to make sure we deal with asylum seekers in a fair and just way.”