World Youth Day is not even half over - and yet is being hailed as an outstanding success. Despite this, Australian authorities will be bracing for the aftermath - the number of " Pilgrims " who fail to return to their own countries.
WYD has been the perfect cover for those who wish to become illegal immigrants. Normally the Immigration people look carefully at visitors, scrutinising their intended length of stay - how much money they have to support themselves during that period - and whether they carry documents that indicate they may be seeking work.
It would be churlish to apply those standards to Pilgrims who will be here for little more than a week - and here for a world event religious meeting - with most costs being met by their hosts who have arraigned billets and meals. Lack of money would not be a reason for refusing entry.
Inevitably there will be some who fade into the background when their plane departs. It is also very likely that organised traffickers will have recognised the opportunities offered by WYD and will have scheduled potential illegal immigrants under this cover.
It will cost Australian authorities time and money to track down those who overstay their tourist visas - but we should be thankful that this country and it's standard of living, pleasant climate and lack of oppression is at the forefront of destinations for those who seek a better life.
It is doubtful that the immigration people in Zimbabwe, Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan and a whole host of similar trouble spots have such an immigration problem !
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