THE Chief Executive of the North West Migrants Forum has described a High Court ruling on the Illegal Migration Act as a “vital affirmation of justice and human dignity”.
In Belfast on Monday Mr Justice Humphreys ordered the “disapplication” of sections of the act as they undermine human rights protections guaranteed under post-Brexit arrangements.
The Illegal Migration Act provides new powers for the government to detain and remove asylum seekers it deems to have arrived illegally in the UK. Central to the new laws is the scheme to send asylum seekers to Rwanda.
Mr Justice Humphreys said aspects of the Illegal Migration Act were also incompatible with the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which the UK remains signed up to.
Rishi Sunak’s office has said the ruling will not derail or delay Rwanda deportations which the UK Government maintains will begin in July.
But Immigration Lawyer and Asylum Solicitor with Phoenix Law, Sinead Marmion, whose client prevailed in bringing the case, said the law will not apply in Northern Ireland.
The law was challenged by the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission and a 16-year-old Iranian boy who crossed the English Channel last year without any parents and claimed asylum in the UK. The boy, who is living in Northern Ireland, said he would be imprisoned or killed if sent back to Iran.
Chief Executive of the North West Migrants Forum, Lilian Seenoi Barr, praised the teenager’s courage in taking on the British Government and said she hoped the ruling would ease the pressure on those seeking refuge in Northern Ireland.
“This court ruling declaring key provisions of the Illegal Migration Act unlawful is a vital affirmation of justice and human dignity. This decision not only corrects a legal wrong but also alleviates the unnecessary stress and anxiety inflicted on vulnerable people seeking refuge from persecution—people who deserve our support, not victimisation.
“This judgment also reiterates that the protections of the Good Friday Agreement are universal, countering recent claims by the prime minister and reinforcing the need for policies that respect and uplift every individual.
“I extend my deepest thanks to Phoenix Law for their steadfast support and reassurance throughout this challenging process. I also commend the remarkable courage of the young person who bravely challenged the Tory Government’s inhumane policy, reminding us of the impact one individual’s resilience can have on our collective humanity.
“As we move forward, let’s ensure our policies reflect our values and commitment to human rights. This victory is not just a legal win but a step towards a more compassionate and lawful approach to immigration and asylum.”