Deported Sri Lankan girl eating again

2.00pm

The Sri Lankan teenager who was deported from New Zealand has started eating again.

The girl's carers had grave concerns for her well-being after she arrived severely undernourished and refused any medical treatment.

The Sri Lankan probation department had offered to take over the care of the girl, but that might have meant separation from her grandmother.

Director of Catholic communications in New Zealand Lyndsay Freer says the sisters at the convent looking after the teenager made a deal with her.

She says the sisters told the girl they would look after her and continue to do what they can, but she had to give them an undertaking that she would eat and drink.

The 16-year-old has since eaten a breakfast and seen a doctor.

- Newstalk ZB