Stand Up To Racism Dorset to march on Portland against Bibby Stockholm barge
They are against the barge but say refugees are welcome in Dorset
A march is being held on Portland today (16 September) to oppose the Bibby Stockholm barge and to say: Refugees Are Welcome.
It's been organised by Stand Up To Racism Dorset who say the barge is "cruel and inhumane", and are calling for an end to what they say is the Government’s "hostile refugee policy and for safe passage for all refugees."
The march is supported by the South-West Region of the TUC and will bring together trade unions, faith groups and community organisations.
It will be followed by a free music festival on Chesil Beach - Let Music Unite.
Lynne Hubbard, joint secretary of Stand Up To Racism Dorset, says: “The Legionella scandal shows that the barge is unsafe and firefighters have warned it is a danger to those on board. Refugees who were placed on the barge say it is ‘worse than a prison’. The only people to benefit are owners of the barge and of Portland Port."
“We say that it’s time to stop scapegoating refugees – people who are victims of war and conflict. The Government wants to blame these vulnerable people in the hope of covering up its own responsibility for the country’s economic and social crises. This blame-game has to stop.
“The Government has ignored the needs of people in areas like Weymouth and Portland. We call for proper services for all the people of Portland - especially our Community Hospital. Let the Government get busy with that, instead of persecuting refugees.”
Following the Portland march, Let Music Unite on Chesil Beach at Chiswell will celebrate community unity. All are welcome to attend.