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Report into Cornelia Rau Matter
VPS 061/2005
Minister for Immigration, Amanda Vanstone, today welcomed the statement from Mick Palmer, confirming that he will present his report into the Cornelia Rau matter within the next four weeks.
‘As I said when I announced Mr Palmer would conduct the inquiry, the Government is committed to getting the facts of the case,’ the Minister said.
‘I agree with Mr Palmer’s decision to not delay his report on the Rau matter, while examination of the Alvarez matter and additional cases referred by the Government are completed.’
The Minister stressed it was important that people have the facts before rushing to judgement on the cases being examined by Mr Palmer.
‘While some people have been quick to apportion blame, it is important that we don’t rush to judgement. Through the Palmer inquiry we are getting a thorough and independent assessment of the facts,’ the Minister said.
‘I am confident that the facts will be provided by Mr Palmer and I look forward to receiving his report.’
The Minister confirmed that the reports findings and recommendations would be made public.
20 May 2005
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URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au /media_releases/media05/v05061.htm
Last update: 20 May 2005 at 12:06 AEST
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Satellite image of Nauru in a remote part of the western Pacific. ''Image:  Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program'' 

Australia is preparing to send 19 Afghan nationals back to their country of origin under a new agreement with Afghanistan.  The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) offers AU$2,000 per individual and up to AU$10,000 per family, along with travel and other accommodations, for the detainees to voluntarily return.  Failing that, those Afghans found not to be refugees are liable to be deported.