The Wire

A group of asylum seekers has been intercepted off the coast of Christmas Island and Prime Minister John Howard says this is an opportunity to set an example by showing they are not welcome. But again the off shore detention centres are receiving criticism. Deputy leader of the Australian Democrats, Senator Andrew Bartlett wants them brought to the mainland. The men claim to be from Sri Lanka and Edmund Rice Centre Director, Phil Glendenning explains the situation there. Refugee Advocate, Frederika Steen worries for the men’s health and Australia’s international obligations.