Refugees set up body to defend rights

REFUGEES in Ireland have set up a new organisation to defend their rights in the face of what they say are growing hostility and racism here.

The Association for Refugees in Ireland, which holds its first meeting in Dublin today, includes members from Iraq, Cuba, Somalia, Vietnam and Afghanistan, all of whom have been granted asylum in Ireland. The Irish Refugee Council is also represented.

According to a founder, Mr Khalid Ibrahim, growing anti immigrant sentiment is causing problems even for established refugees. "Some of us have had direct experience of racist comments and all are finding it harder to find a job."

The new association is expected to press the Government to allow asylum seekers to work in this State. At present, they are prohibited from taking up work until their applications are processed, which takes an average of three years.

"We want seekers to be active members of society... Many of us are used to working hard at home. At the same time, there are jobs that Irish people do not want to do," said Mr Ibrahim.

The association will also urge an incoming government to implement the Refugee Act as soon as possible. The Dail approved it 12 months ago.

Among the association's aims are: to defend the rights of all refugees through peaceful means; to rally public opinion in Ireland in defence of the rights of refugees; and to help refugees assimilate.