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RHA welcomes migrants move
[ February 24, 2016 // Chris ]The Road Haulage Association has welcomed efforts by Xavier Bertrand, President of France’s Nord-Pas-de-Calais region to demolish part of the migrants ‘Jungle’ camp.
Hundreds of migrants living in the southern part of the camp near the port of Calais have been ordered to leave.
RHA chief executive Richard Burnett said: “We welcome this no-nonsense approach and share M. Bertrand’s view that this will reduce the instances of migrant intimidation towards UK-bound HGV drivers.
“Our prime concern is the safety of hauliers who currently face acts of aggression and intimidation from migrants on a daily basis.”
He added: “Of course, it is absolutely essential that any children and other vulnerable people currently living in the camp are given clean, safe accommodation and access to facilities that are currently unavailable to them. For the citizens of Calais, families will be able to walk the streets without fear of intimidation. And the Calais economy itself will once again benefit as businesses that have suffered as a result of the deterrent effect, return to normal.
“However”, concluded Richard Burnett, “the issue of migrant attacks on hauliers, destined for the UK is not confined to the Port. The Calais approach roads, at distances of up to 100 miles also need to be secured and we shall continue our call for the deployment of the French military to ensure that security is achieved and maintained.”