RHA fully supports pledge of Calais President
The Road Haulage Association fully supports the pledge made by Xavier Bertrand, President of Frances Nord-Pas-de-Calais region, to raze the Ports Jungle to the ground.
Commenting, 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.
“We consider that the position taken by M. Bertrand is one that will benefit everyone. Our prime concern is the safety of hauliers who currently face acts of aggression and intimidation from migrants on a daily basis.
“We are very aware that what has become known as the Calais crisis is now far reaching. Calais families and businesses, like the hauliers we represent, ask for no more than to go about their daily routines safely and securely.
“We consider that M. Bertrand’s proposals to dismantle the southern side of the ‘jungle’ to be the most effective measure to alleviate the current situation. It will reduce the number of migrants in the Camp which will in turn reduce the number of attacks on HGV drivers and make it easier for the French security forces to contain the situation.
“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.”
