STUC on closure of Dungavel detention centre

September 8th 2016

STUC on closure of Dungavel detention centre

September 8th 2016

Responding to the closure of Dungavel, Grahame Smith Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) General Secretary said:

“The Dungavel detention centre has for too long been a symbol of all that is wrong in our immigration system and we welcome the Home Office decision today to close it. While we recognise that this is a step in the right direction, we are by no means convinced that the problems within our immigration system are now solved. It is clear that detention will still play a role in the system going forward and our asylum system has for too long run on a climate of suspicion rather than one of dignity and respect for those who are fleeing persecution. The closure of Dungavel is welcome but without a fundamental change within the system many of the problems of destitution, improper questioning and indeed unfair removals will continue unabated.

“While we welcome the decision to close the detention centre it is important to remember the staff who worked hard, under challenging circumstances, to provide the best outcomes within a broken system. It is important that the skills of these workers are valued and that they are supported into new roles”

ENDS

For further information contact Helen Martin 0141 337 8100