Feb 07, 2019 | Sydney, Australia |
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency is among a coalition of Christian charities welcoming news that the final four children will be leaving the island of Nauru.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison this week announced that the children and their families have all been approved for departure to the United States for resettlement.
“When the Prime Minister took office in August last year there were 109 children still on Nauru and today this announcement means the final four and their families will be removed,” said Matt Darvas, campaign director for Micah Australia, a coalition of Christian aid and development agencies.
“This has been an extraordinary campaign, led by Australia’s humanitarian and refugee sector with many thousands across the country raising their voice on behalf of these children.”
ADRA CEO Paul Rubessa agrees: “When we work together for positive change, we can make a difference in people’s lives. Our prayers are with the final four children and their families.”
Darvas said it has been incredible to watch the momentum build in churches and in the public. “And it’s proof that when we raise our voice together, change can happen.
“Micah wants to acknowledge that there are many who have fought hard for this—it wasn’t a battle easily won. The National Justice Project’s lawyers, doctors and case workers have worked tirelessly in the courts and had to fight for this every step of the way.
“We’ve made it well and truly known to the Prime Minister that Christian leaders and pastors across the nation feel very passionately about this issue.”
Since 2013, Australia has been sending men, women and children who claim asylum and arrive in Australian waters by boat to the immigration detention facility on Nauru.
