Standoff between police, Syrian migrants in France

[dipsydoodle]

Source: The Hindu

A migrants’ association in northern France says security forces are in a standoff with several dozen Syrians staging a protest in a northern port in hopes of reaching Britain.

Mael Galisson of Migrant Services Platform says the migrants have occupied a gangway at the Calais ferry terminal since Wednesday, and on Friday police moved to evacuate them. But two among the group of Syrians climbed onto the roof and threatened to jump if their demands were not met, and police backed off.

Mr. Galisson said local police are negotiating with the group of about 55 Syrians, some of whom are on hunger strike.

For years migrants have swarmed Calais, hoping to sneak across the English Channel to Britain, which is seen as an easier place than France to make a life.

Read more: http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/standoff-between-police-syrian-migrants-in-france/article5200722.ece

[Mass]

1. Yes, the Brits do not want them.

[dipsydoodle]

2. Bit more complicated than that.

Issues in Calais with any trying to cross the channel are almost a daily event. The UK has its own border force staff over that side of the channel too or at least did have. There have even been occasions in the past where some have tried to walk through the channel tunnel - not the brightest of ideas.

[Mass]

3. The problem has existed for years.

People come to Calais hoping to be able to cross the Channel. Even if they had a ticket, they would not be allowed to cross because the company would have to repatriate them at their own cost when the UK refuse them (which they would do). So, they are kept in a refugee camp that is not exactly great.

There is no doubt that the conditions are not great, but these people are holding to a hope that does not exist. Entering France is a lot easier than entering the UK.

[Comrade Grumpy]

4. France and Britain should accept the refugees they are helping to generate.

White man's burden and all that.