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Government pledges more money but no homes for Syrian refugees

Fri, 17 Feb 2017

The Isle of Man is increasing its support for Syrian refugees by almost £1m, but they won't be allowed to come to the Island.

The Government revealed that it will allocate £973,000 from the Island's international development budget to the UN's High Commission for Refugees.

The Council of Ministers agreed to increase its support financially, but confirmed refugees won't be allowed to settle on the Island.

The Government recently reviewed its stance after a petition calling for 25 refugees to be housed on the Island gained over 1,000 signatures, but insists the Island doesn't have the support and specialist help needed to house those who have fleed conflict.

However, Chief Minister Howard Quayle says the situation will be reviewed again before 2020.

Since the start of the conflict in Syria, the Isle of Man has now given £1.5m in support for refugees.

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