04/06/2008

Student Seeks Asylum

A Togolese teenager who is currently living in Sligo is to challenge a decision made last week by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal to reject his application for asylum.

The student, 19-year-old Thomas Atcha has been living in Sligo for the past two years and is an active member of the youth development organisation, Dail na nOg.

However, the Refugee Applications Commissioner refused his application for asylum based on the fact that his siblings appeared to be living safely in Togo.

However, Thomas has now said he's afraid the government in Togo who he said will kill him if he returns to his native country.

The teenager, who is due to sit his Leaving Certificate examinations this week, said he was once involved in a political rally with his mother who is a politician in Togo and therefore the Togolese Government may harm him if he is returned.

Dáil na nÓg works in partnership with Foróige and Youth Work Ireland on behalf of the Office of the Minister for Children and with NYCI is the representative body for voluntary youth organisations in Ireland.

NYCI is a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) that promotes the development of services for all young people as well as safeguarding their interests and concerns.

(BMcC)

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