THE RECEPTION and Integration Agency has apologised for using the image of a padlocked and chained door to illustrate its latest publication on asylum statistics.
The agency, which is tasked with providing services to refugees and asylum seekers, was forced to withdraw publication of its March monthly report. It was published on the agency’s website with the image of a large green door, which was padlocked and chained shut.
NGOs representing the rights of refugees criticised the image as grossly inappropriate given the agency is supposed to be caring for asylum seekers, some of whom have fled persecution and torture.
“This incident actually shows the way they think, unfortunately,” said Rosanna Flynn of the NGO Residents Against Racism.
“It reflects a mindset where people coming into this country to seek help are looked upon and treated as if they are guilty of crime.
“There needs to be a complete change of attitude . . . To treat people like criminals is totally wrong,” she added.
In a press statement the Department of Justice, which speaks on behalf of the agency, apologised.
“RIA uses random images freely available on the web to serve as cover illustrations for its monthly statistical reports . . . Following further consideration, RIA acknowledges that the random image used in this case could create an unintended impression and apologises for this.”