Migrants expected to return to Dorset barge today
The Bibby Stockholm was evacuated in August after legionella was found
Asylum seekers evacuated from the Bibby Stockholm in Dorset are due back onboard later.
39 people were told to leave the controversial barge at Portland Port in August following the discovery of Legionella in the water supply.
The Home Office says they must now re-embark on a 'no-choice basis'.
Earlier this week, food supplies were taken on board the vessel in preparation for migrants arriving back there.
Anti-racism campaigners are planning to gather at Portland Port in a 'show of welcome; to the refugees.
Stand Up To Racism Dorset and the Portland Global Friendship Group are leading the event, alongside local residents, faith groups and trade unions.
They're hoping to give migrants arriving there some flowers and welcome packs containing toiletries and other essentials.
Candy Udwin from Stand Up To Racism Dorset said:
"We want to send a clear message of welcome to the refugees who after fleeing from persecution and war deserve better than what feels like a prison barge.
“The great support from local people has countered the division and hatred which was threatened in response to the barge. Now we are calling for the government to organise safe passage for refugees and to clear the asylum claim backlog, rather than spending a fortune on the barge, and stirring up hatred with talk about hurricanes and invasions.“
Heather from the Portland Global Friendship Group said:
“We will be showing solidarity to the men returning to the Bibby Stockholm. We will continue to support them and, as a community, make sure the refugees are welcomed back.
“Many local people have added messages to the Welcome card we have made to show love and kindness to the refugees, which is a testament to the support and care that there is in the local community.”
Since the evacuation of the barge, there's been a legal challenge against the idea, led by Portland's Mayor, Councillor Carralyn Parkes.
High Court judges dismissed that challenge, saying there was 'no arguable case' - an appeal is being planned.
The Fire Brigades Union has also raised concerns about safety on board.
Matilda Bryce, policy adviser at charity Freedom From Torture, said:
"We've warned this Government time and time again that packing refugees onto barges is a mental and physical health catastrophe waiting to happen.
"And, after only a few days on board, refugees who were taken off the Bibby in August spoke of the severe and damaging impact it had on them.
"It's time now for the Government to listen and urgently refocus its efforts into rebuilding a fair, efficient, and compassionate system that protects, not punishes, people."
A Home Office spokesperson said previously:
"The Home Office has started to send letters to asylum seekers to confirm the re-embarkation of the Bibby Stockholm and notify them that they will be accommodated on board, following the vessel completing all necessary tests.
"The letters confirm the next steps for asylum seekers and reiterate that all asylum accommodation continues to be offered on a no-choice basis.
"Delivering alternative accommodation sites, such as the vessel, is more affordable for taxpayers and more manageable for communities, due to healthcare and catering facilities on site, 24/7 security and the purpose-built safe accommodation they provide."