Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

First of many asylum seekers settle into tented accommodation on Nauru

Posted at 05:42 on 14 September, 2012 UTC

The Nauru Government says the first group of 30 asylum seekers is now settling in to temporary tented accommodation at the re-opened Topside camp.

The group of mostly Sri Lankan men, were flown from Christmas Island this morning.

Don Wiseman has more:

“A Nauru Government media release says the transfer went without incident and the asylum seekers appeared relaxed as they went through the brief airport process. It says when they arrived at the site, they were shown to their tents, which have been fitted out with bunks and other facilities. The asylum seekers have also been addressed by members of the Salvation Army, which has been contracted to assist with support measures. The camp is being run by Australian multi national, Transfield Services, which has been contracted by the Australian Federal Government to provide catering, cleaning, security and transport services. Transfield is expected to earn a million US dollars in a week over the next 6 months, and International Health and Medical Services will earn 23 million US dollars in the first six months for medical support including mental health services.”