Treatment of asylum seekers shames us all

THE Irish people have long held a cherished reputation as a compassionate and caring people, with citizens gladly contributing to charities and good causes.

In contrast, the institutions of the State have often been callous and uncaring and, as our story on asylum-seekers reveals, our immigration services are no better.

It is alarming to note the huge increase in the number of people refused entry to the state, some of whom are nationals of countries where they are likely to be at risk of persecution or serious harm.