The Moderator of the Protestant Church in Timor-Leste (IPTL), Rev. Moises A. da Silva, has expressed concern over the proposal by Prime Minister Gillard to establish a regional processing centre for refugees in the country, saying that he cannot understand why refugees attempting to reach Australia must be sent to a country that is already so poor.

Rev. Moises A. da Silva, Moderator of the Protestant Church in Timor-Leste

As the Australian Government negotiates its plan with the government of Timor- Leste, UnitingWorld asks that Australia takes into consideration the social and economic situation in the country.

UnitingWorld National Director, Rev. Dr Kerry Enright, said that the proposed regional processing centre raises questions that need addressing, including the effect it will have on local communities in Timor-Leste.

“Any proposal put forward by Australia needs to embody a genuine, mutual and respectful partnership that allows both sides to participate equally in decision making. This is vital to avoid damaging relations with one of our closest neighbours and to ensure that refugees, who are fleeing persecution and conflict, are treated with respect and dignity.

“As it currently stands, questions include how a centre will be genuinely regional, who will manage it, how it will be funded, and how it will impact communities that are poor.

“Timor-Leste is one of the poorest countries in the world; half the population live on less than US $1 a day. Access to basic health care and food security is only gradually improving.

“The country is also continuing to establish itself after decades of conflict.

“We want to ensure that the voice of our Church Partner, the IPTL, is taken into consideration as the proposal is developed.”

UnitingWorld works in partnership with the IPTL and their development arm, Fundasaun Sosial Naroman (FUSONA) on a range of community development programs aimed at improving food security and access to basic health care in communities living in poverty.

Further information:

Timor-Leste

Protestant Church in Timor-Leste

Food Security and Health Care project in Timor-Leste

Tags: Timor Leste

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