Australia to host film festival in a bid to draw attention to illegal migration issues

In a bid to combat illegal maritime migration the Australian government will host a film festival where Sri Lankans could submit short films on the dangers of illegal migration by boat, a senior Australian border protection official said today (Sept 3).

Major General Craig Furini who heads Australia's Operation Sovereign Borders (OSB) - a border protection operation, said that 204 illegal Sri Lankan migrants have been deported from Australia since 2013.

He made these remarks at an event that was held at the Fisheries Harbour in Negombo to create awareness on the consequences of illegal migration.

"An illegal boat journey is as pointless as it is dangerous. There is zero chance of illegal migration to Australia," Maj. Gen. Furini emphasized.

He pointed out that the Australian government had launched a successful campaign titled 'Zero Chance' in June this year to prevent people from illegally migrating after being duped into smuggling.

This year, 36 people have been people had been deported from Australia following failed illegal migration attempts. They are being investigated by local authorities and are due to face legal action.

Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka David Holly and Director (Operations) of Sri Lanka Navy Read Admiral Niraja Artigala were also present during the occasion.

More details on the film festival would be published to the Facebook page of the Australian High Commission in due course.

(Pics by Amila Gamage)