The UK government has initiated a controversial move to relocate asylum-seekers to a barge moored off the southern coast of England. An attempt to reduce expenses associated with providing shelter to those seeking protection in the country.
Barge Accommodation Begins
On Monday, a group of fifteen asylum-seekers were transferred to the Bibby Stockholm, a floating hostel docked in southern England. The barge, owned by UK-based Bibby Marine, will eventually accommodate up to 500 men. These individuals were relocated from various sites across the nation as part of the government’s effort to address the escalating costs linked to housing asylum-seekers. Especially given the significant surge in arrivals in recent years.
Cheryl Avery, the director for asylum accommodation at the Home Office, confirmed the transfer of individuals. He noted that additional arrivals were anticipated as authorities aim to decrease reliance on costly hotel rooms that had been requisitioned on an emergency basis.
Challenges and Criticisms
While the transfer process was initiated, there have been reports of “minor legal challenges” to these relocations as indicated by Avery. Some challenges have led to the cancellation of transfers for approximately 20 asylum-seekers, according to Care4Calais, a refugee charity. Meanwhile, the organization’s CEO, Steve Smith, raised concerns about the living conditions on the barge. Moreover, deeming it “inhumane” for individuals who may have experienced trauma and adversity.
Opposition to the plan also stems from local communities and immigrant rights groups. Indeed, protests have emerged, driven by concerns about the barge’s impact on the nearby community of Portland Port on England’s south coast. Critics highlight an existing scarcity of medical services and logistical challenges. The community is connected to the mainland via a single road. Immigrants’ rights advocates deem the accommodation arrangement inappropriate and lacking in proper support for asylum-seekers.
Government’s Cost-Cutting Strategy
Facing substantial costs, the UK government has turned to unconventional measures. It includes barges and repurposed military bases, to accommodate migrants. The cost of housing asylum-seekers in hotels reached an astonishing £1.9 billion ($2.4 billion) in the previous year.
Home Office Minister Sarah Dines defended the decision, emphasising that individuals arriving through unauthorized means should have access to “basic but proper accommodation.” Dines emphasized that expectations of luxury accommodations are unrealistic for those seeking refuge.
As the barge accommodation unfolds amid mounting criticisms, debates over humanitarian considerations, and cost-saving strategies. Moreover, the treatment of asylum-seekers continues to echo across the UK.
