I read with interest and concern your recent article about Balseskin Reception Centre (1-14 March 2013).
Of course I am sad to hear of such reports, but I feel your story is an unfair report of the experience in Balseskin for most residents.
I am a refugee and former journalist in my own country. I lived in Balseskin for over one-and-a-half years with my family when I came to Ireland in 2009. I come from Iraq, and although my time in Balseskin was stressful, and of course such conditions are not perfect, this is not a perfect world.
When I arrived in Balseskin with my family I felt supported by the staff in the centre. They were helpful and kind to me when I had problems even when they were busy with many people. Also, the staff in the health centre provided very good help and support to us.
Many people living in these circumstances have their own problems and stress from before, and also while living in the asylum system. It is easy to blame others and be angry at the staff and managers in centres and officials in the Department of Justice. Yes, the system is not perfect. However, these staff and people still try to do their best in my experience. Indeed I am sad to say some residents can also show disrespect to staff and treat staff badly too – I saw this many times.
The experience of my family in Balseskin was that people and staff helped and supported us when we needed it, and yes it was difficult at times – this is true for many – but many activities were in place for us, including a school for English, sport, volunteer work, a children’s group and counselling and medical services. We also made good friends with other residents and staff.
As human beings it is about how we treat each other with respect. It is important for your newspaper to give a balance of opinions from asylum seekers and refugees who have good experiences in Balseskin and maybe other centres, people like me who are grateful to the Irish Government, which provided a secure and comfortable place to me and my family when we needed it. There are many people who shared my opinion and who are grateful.
Ahmed Ali Mohammad
Coolmine, Dublin 15
