Division Description Changes — Motions — Asylum Seekers — 17th Jul 2014

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senate vote 2014-07-17#10 Edited by mackay staff on 2014-10-09 14:46:51	Title Description The majority voted against a [motion](http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1) introduced by Greens Senator [Sarah Hanson-Young](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate). The motion was: "_That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees) has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution._" ~~Background to the motion~~ ~~By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.~~ The first involved an [asylum seeker](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers) boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [Sri Lanka](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka), including four [Tamils](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils). The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [Manus Island](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre) or [Nauru](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre). All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924). ) The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726). ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766). ) The majority voted against a [motion](http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1) introduced by Greens Senator [Sarah Hanson-Young](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate). The motion was: "_That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees) has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution._" Background to the motion By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs. The first involved an [asylum seeker](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers) boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [Sri Lanka](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka), including four [Tamils](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils). The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [Manus Island](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre) or [Nauru](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre). All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924).) The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726). ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766).) Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [non-refoulement](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement), which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [1951 Refugee Convention](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention)".(Read the whole ABC News article [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766).)
senate vote 2014-07-17#10 Edited by system on 2014-10-07 16:22:19	Title Description The majority voted against a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1 motion] introduced by Greens Senator [http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate Sarah Hanson-Young]. The motion was: "''That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.''" ~~Background to the motion~~ ~~By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.~~ The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here]. ) The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here]. ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. ) Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".(Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].) The majority voted against a [motion](http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1) introduced by Greens Senator [Sarah Hanson-Young](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate). The motion was: "_That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees) has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution._" Background to the motion By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs. The first involved an [asylum seeker](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers) boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [Sri Lanka](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka), including four [Tamils](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils). The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [Manus Island](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre) or [Nauru](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre). All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924). ) The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726). ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766). ) Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [non-refoulement](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement), which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [1951 Refugee Convention](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention)".(Read the whole ABC News article [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766).)
senate vote 2014-07-17#10 Edited by system on 2014-10-07 16:17:01	Title Description The majority voted against a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1 motion] introduced by Greens Senator [http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate Sarah Hanson-Young]. The motion was: "''That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.''" Background to the motion By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs. The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.[1] The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here]. ) The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.[2] The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.[3] The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here]. ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. ) Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".[4] Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".(Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].) ~~''References''~~ * [1] Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here]. * [2] Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here]. * [3] Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. * [4] Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].
senate vote 2014-07-17#10 Edited by mackay staff on 2014-07-23 14:54:55	Title ~~Motions — Asylum Seekers - Against 'on water' screening and transfer practices~~ Motions — Asylum Seekers — Against 'on water' screening and transfer practices Description The majority voted against a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1 motion] introduced by Greens Senator [http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate Sarah Hanson-Young]. The motion was: "''That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.''" Background to the motion ~~By "'on water' screening and transfer practices", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.~~ By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs. The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.[1] The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.[2] The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.[3] Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".[4] ''References'' * [1] Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here]. * [2] Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here]. * [3] Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. * [4] Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. * [4] Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].
senate vote 2014-07-17#10 Edited by mackay staff on 2014-07-23 14:53:46	Title ~~Motions — Asylum Seekers~~ Motions — Asylum Seekers - Against 'on water' screening and transfer practices Description ~~<p class="speaker">Sarah Hanson-Young</p>~~ ~~<p>I move:</p>~~ <p>That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.</p> The majority voted against a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1 motion] introduced by Greens Senator [http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate Sarah Hanson-Young]. The motion was: "''That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.''" Background to the motion By "'on water' screening and transfer practices", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs. The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.[1] The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.[2] The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.[3] Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".[4] ''References'' * [1] Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here]. * [2] Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here]. * [3] Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. * [4] Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. ~~<p class="speaker">Michaelia Cash</p>~~ ~~<p>I seek leave to make a short statement.</p>~~ ~~<p class="speaker">Gavin Marshall</p>~~ ~~<p>Leave is granted for one minute.</p>~~ ~~<p class="speaker">Michaelia Cash</p>~~ <p>The government will not be supporting this motion. The government forthrightly reject the suggestion that Australia is in any way in breach of our international obligations. Australia returned to Sri Lanka 37 Singhalese and four Tamils because none engaged in any of Australia's protection obligations and hence were not refugees. To suggest otherwise provides tacit approval for illegal migration. The government's focus is to do everything in its power to prevent people smuggling and loss of life at sea.</p> ~~<p class="speaker">Gavin Marshall</p>~~ ~~<p>The question is that general business notice of motion No. 361 be agreed to.</p>~~

Change

Division

senate vote 2014-07-17#10

Edited by mackay staff

on 2014-10-09 14:46:51

Title

Description

The majority voted against a [motion](http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1) introduced by Greens Senator [Sarah Hanson-Young](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate). The motion was:
"_That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees) has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution._"
~~Background to the motion~~
~~By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.~~
The first involved an [asylum seeker](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers) boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [Sri Lanka](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka), including four [Tamils](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils). The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [Manus Island](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre) or [Nauru](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre). All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924). )
The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726). ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766). )
The majority voted against a [motion](http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1) introduced by Greens Senator [Sarah Hanson-Young](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate). The motion was:
"_That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees) has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution._"
Background to the motion
By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.
The first involved an [asylum seeker](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers) boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [Sri Lanka](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka), including four [Tamils](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils). The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [Manus Island](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre) or [Nauru](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre). All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924).)
The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726). ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766).)
Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [non-refoulement](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement), which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [1951 Refugee Convention](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention)".(Read the whole ABC News article [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766).)

senate vote 2014-07-17#10

Edited by system

on 2014-10-07 16:22:19

Title

Description

The majority voted against a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1 motion] introduced by Greens Senator [http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate Sarah Hanson-Young]. The motion was:
"''That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.''"
~~Background to the motion~~
~~By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.~~
The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here]. )
The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here]. ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. )
Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".(Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].)
The majority voted against a [motion](http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1) introduced by Greens Senator [Sarah Hanson-Young](http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate). The motion was:
"_That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees) has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution._"
Background to the motion
By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.
The first involved an [asylum seeker](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers) boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [Sri Lanka](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka), including four [Tamils](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils). The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [Manus Island](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre) or [Nauru](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre). All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924). )
The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726). ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766). )
Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [non-refoulement](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement), which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [1951 Refugee Convention](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention)".(Read the whole ABC News article [here](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766).)

senate vote 2014-07-17#10

Edited by system

on 2014-10-07 16:17:01

Title

Description

The majority voted against a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1 motion] introduced by Greens Senator [http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate Sarah Hanson-Young]. The motion was:
"''That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.''"
Background to the motion
By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.
The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.[1]
The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.(Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here]. )
The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.[2] The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.[3]
The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.(Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here]. ) The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.(Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here]. )
Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".[4]
Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".(Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].)
~~''References''~~
* [1] Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here].
* [2] Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here].
* [3] Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].
* [4] Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].

senate vote 2014-07-17#10

Edited by mackay staff

on 2014-07-23 14:54:55

Title

~~Motions — Asylum Seekers - Against 'on water' screening and transfer practices~~
Motions — Asylum Seekers — Against 'on water' screening and transfer practices

Description

The majority voted against a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1 motion] introduced by Greens Senator [http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate Sarah Hanson-Young]. The motion was:
"''That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.''"
Background to the motion
~~By "'on water' screening and transfer practices", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.~~
By "'on water' screening and transfers", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.
The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.[1]
The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.[2] The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.[3]
Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".[4]
''References''
* [1] Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here].
* [2] Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here].
* [3] Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].
* [4] Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].
* [4] Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].

senate vote 2014-07-17#10

Edited by mackay staff

on 2014-07-23 14:53:46

Title

~~Motions — Asylum Seekers~~
Motions — Asylum Seekers - Against 'on water' screening and transfer practices

Description

~~Sarah Hanson-Young~~
~~I move:~~
That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.
The majority voted against a [http://www.openaustralia.org/senate/?id=2014-07-17.53.1 motion] introduced by Greens Senator [http://publicwhip-rails.openaustraliafoundation.org.au/mp.php?mpn=Sarah_Hanson-Young&mpc=Senate&house=senate Sarah Hanson-Young]. The motion was:
"''That the Senate calls on the Government to cease the current 'on water' screening and transfers of asylum seekers which the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_High_Commissioner_for_Refugees United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] has said fall well short of Australia's international obligations and could mean that asylum seekers were returned, or refouled, to persecution.''"
Background to the motion
By "'on water' screening and transfer practices", Senator Hanson-Young is referring to two recent incidents involving asylum seeker boats intercepted by Australian Customs.
The first involved an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asylum_seekers#Asylum_seekers asylum seeker] boat that carried 41 asylum seekers from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_lanka Sri Lanka], including four [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamils Tamils]. The boat was intercepted by Australian Customs and their claims for asylum were assessed via teleconference at sea. Only one was found to have a case for seeking asylum, but the Government says they chose to return to Sri Lanka with the others after being told they would be sent to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manus_Island_detention_centre Manus Island] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nauru_detention_centre Nauru]. All 41 people were transferred to the Sri Lankan navy and are now facing charges in a Sri Lankan Court.[1]
The second incident involved a boat that carried 153 asylum seekers, including young children. The boat was also intercepted by Australian Customs but a High Court interim injunction blocked them from transferring the asylum seekers to Sri Lanka.[2] The Government has undertaken to give three days' notice before returning the asylum seekers. Currently, the 153 asylum seekers are aboard a Customs vessel in an unknown location and it is unclear whether they will stay there until their case can proceed through the High Court.[3]
Australia's international protection obligations include the principle of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-refoulement non-refoulement], which ABC News explained as "UN-speak for not turning away a refugee without a fair hearing, a key tenet of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugee_convention 1951 Refugee Convention]".[4]
''References''
* [1] Read more about the 41 people returned to Sri Lanka by Australian Customs [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/morrison-confirms-sri-lankans-returned-after-interception/5575924 here].
* [2] Read more about the High Court interim injunction [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-07/high-court-injunction-halts-handover-of-asylum-seekers/5579726 here].
* [3] Read more about the standoff in the High Court [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].
* [4] Read the whole ABC News article [http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/high-court-hearing-on-asylum-seekers/5581766 here].
~~Michaelia Cash~~
~~I seek leave to make a short statement.~~
~~Gavin Marshall~~
~~Leave is granted for one minute.~~
~~Michaelia Cash~~
The government will not be supporting this motion. The government forthrightly reject the suggestion that Australia is in any way in breach of our international obligations. Australia returned to Sri Lanka 37 Singhalese and four Tamils because none engaged in any of Australia's protection obligations and hence were not refugees. To suggest otherwise provides tacit approval for illegal migration. The government's focus is to do everything in its power to prevent people smuggling and loss of life at sea.
~~Gavin Marshall~~
~~The question is that general business notice of motion No. 361 be agreed to.~~