No Water in Immigration Detention Centre Cell, Says Watchdog
A recent report reveals serious issues at an Australian immigration detention centre, including lack of water and basic amenities for detainees
Yongah Hill, Perth, Australia, Immigration Detention, Watchdog
Perth: A watchdog has raised some serious concerns about the Yongah Hill Immigration Detention Centre. They found that detainees are stuck in a cell without a toilet or running water. Can you believe that?
This place is about an hour northeast of Perth, and it’s not just the lack of water that’s a problem. The review pointed out that detainees have limited access to support services and family visits, which really messes with their mental health.
Iain Anderson, the Commonwealth National Preventive Mechanism Ombudsman, mentioned that there are several areas that just aren’t satisfactory. It’s pretty alarming to think about how these folks are being treated.
The review also highlighted that those in the high-security area don’t have good access to communication or timely information. It’s like they’re cut off from the outside world.
And get this: they don’t even have the same access to facilities and programs as others in the general population. That’s just not fair.
Mr. Anderson also expressed concerns about a so-called “soft room” being used for high-care accommodation. He said it basically meets the definition of a dry cell, which is a big no-no in the Immigration Detention Network.
This room is missing all the basic stuff you need, like a toilet, sink, and running water. It’s just not right to hold someone there for any length of time.
The watchdog is urging the Australian Border Force to stop using this soft room until they can come up with proper safety guidelines and practices. They also recommended better access to communication and programs for the detainees.
Right now, about 160 people are being held at Yongah Hill, and some of them have been there for over six years. That’s a long time to be in such conditions.
The centre is run by the ABF, while Serco Asia Pacific Pty Ltd and International Health and Medical Services handle the detention and health services. It’s a complicated setup, and the Department of Home Affairs, the ABF, and the Refugee Council of Australia have been asked for their comments.