Minister says 18 Manus refugees moving to US

By CLIFFORD FAIPARIK
EIGHTEEN refugees from Manus have left the country to resettle in the United States, according to Immigration and Border Security Minister Petrus Thomas, pictured.
They left Port Moresby yesterday morning “after being found eligible for resettlement in the US”, he said.
“The departure of the 18 refugees brings to 102 the total number of refugees resettled in the US so far.
“This is the fourth batch of refugees who have left PNG.
“And I am happy for this group of refugees to be moving on with their lives in the US.”
Thomas said the Immigration and Citizenship Authority would continue to assist US officials process the refugees on Manus for resettlement.
“We look forward to seeing more refugees find a durable settlement pathway,” he said.
Thomas reminded non-refugees to take the assistance package offered and leave voluntarily to their countries of origin.
He said non-refugees had no right to remain in PNG.
“PNG is welcoming to those in genuine need of protection,” Thomas said.
“However, non-refugees found not to be owed protection need to return home and move on with their lives.”