Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that the current facilities within the Department of Immigration are inadequate for holding illegal immigrants, and there are no immediate plans to establish proper detention centres. In a recent address to Parliament, Rabuka, who also serves as the Minister for Immigration, highlighted a troubling incident where an individual detained for immigration violations was placed alongside convicted criminals.
Rabuka noted the alarming rise in the number of illegal immigrants in Fiji, which has surged to over 8,000—a significant jump from 4,700 in just one year. This statistic has raised concerns within the Department of Immigration.
To tackle these issues, the Prime Minister indicated that the government is undertaking a thorough review of the Immigration Act to bolster the department’s capabilities. This review aims to enhance the institution’s independence while addressing various critical areas, including intelligence gathering, new immigration pathways, issuance of infringement notices and penalties, removal processes, and response strategies to non-traditional threats.
In a potentially positive move, Rabuka mentioned that the government is considering the implementation of an amnesty program. This initiative aims to help reduce the numbers of illegal immigrants while providing a pathway for those who qualify to remain in Fiji. The Office of the Solicitor-General is currently assessing this proposal.
This proactive approach could not only enhance the management of immigration in Fiji but also offer a chance for individuals who have found themselves in limbo to secure their status and contribute to society.
Summary: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka addressed the issue of illegal immigration in Fiji, revealing alarming increases in numbers and inadequate holding facilities. He announced a comprehensive review of the Immigration Act aimed at improving the department’s efficacy and hinted at a possible amnesty to help reduce illegal immigrant numbers and assist those eligible for legal residence in the country.
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