SINN Féin MEP Martina Anderson has said the international community must take action to tackle the growing refugee crisis.
“This year more than ever we need the international community to take real action to solve the growing refugee and humanitarian crisis.Speaking today on World Refugee Day,” Martina Anderson said.
“Every minute, 24 people are displaced by war, persecution and terror.
“The United Nations Agency for Refugees estimates that there are over 22 million refugees worldwide.
“There are a further 40 million people internally displaced in their own countries.
“Last year, over 75,000 unaccompanied or separated children sought asylum as refugees.
“This record of shame is not just statistics; they are people.
“We cannot stand idly by and just let this humanitarian crisis unfold before our eyes.
“The Irish people share a common history with those escaping conflict and hunger.
“Today, on World Refugee Day, I am calling on the Irish government and the governments of Europe to do more.
“They must safely relocate and resettle more refugees, end Direct Provision, and invest in sufficient housing and public services for everyone.
“The international community must also do more to stop the conflicts, and protect those who come desperately seeking shelter from persecution.”
