Ruddock urged to free detained immigrants

18 April 2001 ABC Radio

A small group of demonstrators are outside the Department of Immigration Office in Sydney protesting over immigrant detention laws.

They have called on the Immigration Minister, Phillip Ruddock, to free immigrants who remain in prison despite having completed their custodial sentences.

Once permanent residents of Australia, the prisoners have had their visas cancelled because of their criminal convictions and are awaiting deportation.

The Australian Government no longer wants them, nor do their countries of origin.

Thang Ngo a spokesman for the handful of protesters gathered outside Immigration House in Sydney, says Mr Ruddock has little choice but to free the prisoners.

The protesters are asking immigration staff to support their campaign.

ABC Radio: http://abc.net.au/news/newslink/weekly/newsnat-18apr2001-61.htm