Protest in York against Government policy to send asylum seekers to Rwanda
Protestors will gather in St Helen's Square today
A protest is being held in York today against the Government's controversial plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda.
Demonstrators will meet up in St Helen's Square.
Julie Forgan is from York Stand up to Racism who have organised the event. "It does make me feel really angry, and ashamed as well to think that we are living in a country that doesn't welcome people who are fleeing persecution and, you know, trauma."
A challenge against the policy is due to be held in the High Court on Monday.
Announcing the plans earlier this year Home Secretary Priti Patel said:
"Our world-leading partnership with Rwanda is a key part of our strategy to overhaul the broken asylum system and break the evil people smugglers’ business model....
While we know attempts will now be made to frustrate the process and delay removals, I will not be deterred and remain fully committed to delivering what the British public expect."
In a statement the Home Office say "Once in Rwanda, there is a generous support package, including up to 5 years of training, accommodation, and healthcare on arrival. Under this partnership the UK is also investing an initial £120 million into the economic development and growth of Rwanda.
The partnership forms part of the New Plan for Immigration, the government’s response to overhaul the asylum system – which is currently costing the UK taxpayer £1.5 billion a year – to create a fair but firm immigration system."